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Dr Russell Sharp

Eutrema Ltd

It was about time we recorded a podcast on flooding and waterlogging, seeing how 2024 has been a wash out of a year!

In this podcast we do a deep dive into all aspects of flooding; causes, effects on plants, positive effects, and how to solve issues around clay soils impeding drainage.

For more details on Eutrema's Liquid Gypsum please visit: https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/

Dr Russell Sharp

Eutrema Ltd

Welcome to a special Halloween edition of Cereal Killers, the podcast dedicated to the pests and diseases affecting cereal crops. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of the ghost moth, scientifically known as Hepialis humuli.

Discover the intriguing history and biology of this moth, from its misleading scientific name to its unique mating dance known as "lekking." Learn about the ghost moth's lifecycle, its impact on various crops, and its fascinating relationship with bats.

Join us as we explore the ghost moth's ability to adapt and survive, despite its lack of traditional senses like hearing and taste. Uncover the reasons behind its peculiar strategies and how they help it thrive in the wild.

Don't miss out on this spooky and educational episode that offers a special Halloween treat for our listeners.

Happy Halloween!

Dr Russell Sharp

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In this episode of Cereal Killers we focus on the notorious Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV). As farmers brace themselves for the upcoming season, we explore the impact of this virus on winter wheat and barley, where it can lead to staggering yield losses of up to 60% and 50% respectively.

Join us as Russell discusses the intricacies of controlling BYDV, including the role of aphids as vectors, and the importance of timely aphid control measures. We cover a variety of strategies, from insecticide applications to innovative farming practices like direct drilling and the use of BYDV-tolerant crop varieties. Additionally, we touch on the complexities of the virus's science and explore the promising developments in black grass pathogenic spore trials.

Whether you're a seasoned agronomist or a curious listener, this episode provides valuable insights into managing one of the most serious threats to cereal crops. Tune in and discover how you can stay ahead of the curve in combating BYDV.

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In this episode, Josie and Russell dive deep into the world of the small but mighty flea beetle, a pest with over 100 species that wreaks havoc on crops like oilseed rape and brassicas.

Learn about the life cycle of these beetles, their impressive jumping abilities, and the significant impact they have on crop yields. Discover the challenges of controlling flea beetles, from insecticides to innovative methods like companion planting and trap crops. Josie also shares fascinating insights on how scientists are studying flea beetles to inspire advancements in robotics and engineering.

Don't miss this engaging and informative episode, filled with interesting facts, practical advice, and a few light-hearted moments. Whether you're a farmer, gardener, or just curious about these tiny pests, there's something here for everyone.

Hit the bell icon to stay updated with our latest episodes and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts on who would win in the insect Olympics!

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In this episode, Josie and Russ tackle the troublesome weeds; couch grass and onion couch grass.

Also known as twitch grass or quack grass, couch grass has a multitude of common names. Its scientific name, Elymus repens, hints at its creeping nature. This weed is a significant issue in horticulture and gardens, and it can be particularly tricky to control once its roots get intertwined with your plants.

We discuss the weed's reproduction via rhizomes and seeds, its impact on crop yield, and effective control methods such as cultivation and glyphosate application. They also touch on its role as an alternative host for pests and fungi.

Additionally, we explore onion grass, which is unrelated to couch grass but often confused with it. This variant of false oat grass also poses its own challenges and requires different control methods.

Tune in to learn more about these persistent weeds, their effects on your crops, and how to manage them effectively. Plus, get a glimpse into the hosts' favourite pasta dishes and their thoughts on chocolate pizza!

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In this episode we chat about chocolate spot—a serious fungal disease affecting field and broad beans.

While the name might sound delicious, chocolate spot is anything but tasty. The discussion covers the causes, symptoms, and impacts of this disease, as well as effective methods for control. Learn about the differences between Botrytis fabiae and Botrytis cinerea, and why crop rotation and debris management are crucial.

With a touch of humor and some interesting historical tidbits, this episode is both informative and entertaining. Discover why fava beans are gaining popularity and the UK government's push for pea and bean research. Plus, get tips on using fungicides and other treatments to keep your crops healthy.

Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide to managing chocolate spot in your bean crops. Tune in now and join the conversation!

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Meadow grasses, specifically Poa annua (annual meadow grass) and Poa trivialis (rough meadow grass).

Whilst these weeds may not pose a significant threat to crop yields, they present unique biological traits and can become pesky nuisances in certain conditions. Discover the fascinating details about Poa annua, its misleading name, and how it thrives in various environments, including its impact in New Zealand.

Learn about the ephemeral nature of Poa annua, its ability to propagate through both seeds and rhizomes, and its role as a host for the harmful ergot fungus. The discussion also covers Poa trivialis, its perennial nature, and its adaptability to compacted, damp soils, especially in no-till farming systems.

Join us as we explore these meadow grasses' resilience, their potential herbicide resistance, and the implications for farmers. Stay tuned for our next episode on the intriguing topic of chocolate spot. Thank you for listening!

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