Tramlines

Today we’re tackling spring crop decisions. How do you nail the timing, get nutrition spot on, and boost your results? To answer that, we’ve got Ben Foster from RHIZA and Gavin Stewart, Fertiliser Product Manager for Scotland, and George Proctor, Contracting Operations Manager at Agrii. Summary: Nitrogen needs to be used more efficiently60% nitrogen use efficiency70–75%Liquid fertiliser offers accuracy and quicker uptakeLiqui‑Safe~15%4% yield upliftPrecision starts with understanding variabilityContour satellite imagerydronesN‑sensorsContract sprayers give farmers access to variable‑rate technologyTiming and conditions matter as much as rate.

Today we’re talking moths and asking a bold question: could bats be the game‑changing IPM tool that protects harvestable yield and boosts the bottom line for this Kent dessert‑apple farm? Richard and Fraiya Chandler of Chandler & Dunn, together with Agrii agronomist Neil Obbard, have been putting this idea to the test. Summary: Bats as natural pest control: The farm is exploring whether boosting bat populations can significantly reduce key moth pests in apple orchards, lowering reliance on insecticides and cutting production costs. High economic impact of moth damage: Moth species like codling moth and tortrix can cause major crop losses, and current chemical control costs the farm £500–£600 per hectare. Scientific evidence backs the idea: A 2022 study shows that a single brown long‑eared bat can reduce crop loss by 81–83% per hectare - a remarkable potential impact. Habitat improvement is key: Enhancing hedgerows, tree cover, and installing appropriate bat boxes can help attract and support different bat species, boosting their presence in orchards. Wider farming benefits: Using bats aligns with sustainable IPM, protects biodiversity, and may translate to benefits across other crops like plums, cherries, and blueberries.

Crop resilience is a major talking point, but what does it really mean for this spring and the season ahead? How can farmers set crops up to deliver reliable, consistent results in a challenging growing year? In this episode, we are joined by Agrii’s John Miles, Seed Technical Manager, Tom Land, National Fertiliser Manager, Jonathan Trotter, Technical Trials Manager, and Jody Littleford, Technical Manager at Combinable Crop Trials. Together, they discuss how varieties, nutrition, Biosolutions and fungicides, and the latest technology can be brought together to build stronger, more resilient crops from the outset. Summary: Disease pressure is highNutrition must be preciseTech tools like satellite imagery and variable‑rate nitrogenBiostimulants, including endophytes and peptide elicitorsOverall resilience comes from measuring, monitoring, and staying aheadDownload Agrii's latest insight report beyond the bottom line, tackling rising costs with smarter margins. Visit agrii.co.uk or view here.

Growing last year’s forage proved challenging, with weather conditions hitting many crops. Maize, in particular, remains highly sensitive to in‑season pressures - yet it continues to offer major advantages when managed well. So what benefits can maize deliver, and how can growers set themselves up for success in 2026? To explore these questions, we're joined by two experts: Ben Lowe, Agrii’s National Forage Manager, and Tom Turner, Regional Sales Manager for KWS. Podcast summary: 2025 growing season was highly variable, with some regions achieving excellent maize yields while others suffered severe drought and extremely poor performance. Both forage and AD growers faced big inconsistencies. Resilience and early maturity are key themes for 2026. Experts emphasise strong variety selection, moving to earlier‑maturing genetics, and balancing yield with forage quality to buffer against unpredictable weather. Seed rate decisions depend on site conditions — sheltered sites can push 100k–110k seeds/ha, exposed or drought‑prone areas benefit from reduced rates to improve stem strength, moisture availability, and harvest timing. Modern genetics reduce the need for plastic film in marginal areas. Advances mean ultra‑early varieties can now establish reliably even in cooler or challenging regions without film. Top tips from the experts: choose the right variety for your site, prioritise quality as much as yield, ensure good site selection and maturity matching, and avoid reverting to later varieties despite the temptation after drier years. View the 2026 maize guide here.

Considering the unpredictable nature of farm margins, what straightforward opportunities are available for farmers to earn extra income through carbon initiatives? Today, our experts shed light on this. Agrii’s Amy Hardwick, Sustainability and Environmental Manager, Agrii’s Neil Harper, Agronomist and Arable Technical Manager, and Alan Clifton-Holt, Farms Director at AA Clifton Ltd, who farms on Romney Marsh in Kent. If you would like to start exploring the initiatives available, click here to see what it could mean for your farm.

Today we explore the Agri Wellbeing Alliance, launched at LAMMA in January to strengthen mental health and wellbeing across agriculture. A recent study led by Professor David Rose at Harper Adams University for the alliance highlights the urgent need to widen the safety net of support for farming communities, including better help for those who find themselves acting as accidental counsellors. Joining us today are Petra Martin from Agrii, Professor David Rose from Harper Adams University, and Sam Downey from Mates in Mind. Agrii can help future-proof your farm by growing a diverse range of crops together with comprehensive advice on environmental and sustainable business opportunities. For more information, visit www.agrii.co.uk/sustainability

Today we are asking how can we build better crop resilience and rooting in forward crops to overcome the changes in variety, susceptibility, and changing weather patterns. To help us with those key questions, we have Agrii's Tim Horton, technical Manager for combinable crops, and Jodie Littleford, technical Manager for combinable crop trials. Summary: Building Resilience: InoculateManagement Tips: CPD points: Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode, date of birth and the podcast title.

Today we’re talking about the challenges facing farm businesses after two very difficult years of crop establishment and a dry summer that has left many under significant financial pressure. That’s the picture here in the UK, but globally we’re seeing record harvests - and it’s not just arable enterprises under strain. Livestock producers have been severely affected too. So, what can farmers do to navigate this period and build resilience? To explore that question, we're joined by Lucy Braithwaite-Exley Scotland Origination Manager with Bunge, and Paul Pickford, Farm Business Consultant. This episode covers: Create a Clear Financial Plan Build a realistic budget and gross margin analysis to guide decisions and secure financial support. This helps manage cash flow and ensures you're prepared for seasonal input costs. Engage Early with Local Buyers and Merchants Identify local market demand to reduce haulage costs and improve profitability. Regularly speak with merchants and traders to align crop choices with buyer needs. Diversify Marketing Strategies Use tools like grain pools to manage price volatility and ensure movement and payment for a portion of your crop. This reduces risk and improves financial predictability. Adapt Cropping Based on Market Signals Monitor shifts in demand (e.g. reduced distilling sector needs in Scotland) and adjust crop rotations accordingly - consider alternatives like oats, rye, or oilseed rape where viable. Leverage Sustainable Practices for Financial Gain Implement strategies like reduced tillage, cover cropping, and efficient nutrition to unlock environmental and financial benefits. Explore pilot projects and sustainability schemes that offer rewards. *Please note: This podcast was recorded on 13 October 25, and market prices may have changed since then.

In this episode, we discuss phosphorus as a key nutrient across a range of crops, from cereals and potatoes to vegetables, and review recent research and its impact on financial margins. We’ll also cover how farmers and growers can get involved and learn more. Joining us are Agrii’s Tom Land, Fertiliser Technical Manager, and Don Pendergrast, Technical Manager for Specialty Crops. Episode overview: Phosphorus is vital for crop establishment and root development: Precision application is key for specialty crops like potatoes: New R&D focuses on improving phosphorus efficiency: Return on investment matters more than maximum yield: Farmers can stay informed via grain testing and Agrii events: Book your spot at The Potato Partnership event and learn about this season's trials results at your nearest location. Visit thepotatopartnership.co.uk/events

Today we ask, can a farmer have too much data? As on-farm challenges grow, how can data become vital to farm businesses and what new tools are available? To help us explore these questions, we are joined by Ben Hatton from TELUS, and Sam Fordham from RHIZA Digital. Data Overload or Opportunity? TELUS Partnership for Smarter Farming Evolving Data Demands AI, Drones & Automation Top Tips for Growers Find out more at telus.com/CropManagement or email farmplansales@telusagcg.com to discuss your farm’s needs. Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

This episode focuses on the challenges farmers are facing with forage this year. After a wet winter and a dry summer, concerns are growing around forage shortages for livestock. We are joined by Ben Lowe, Agrii’s National Forage Product Manager, and Amy Hardwick, Sustainability and Environmental Services Manager, to discuss the current situation, the pressures on arable and livestock systems, and the practical steps farmers can take now to protect forage supplies and build longer-term resilience. Download our up-to-date Agrii Maize Brochure agrii.co.uk/our-services/tools-resources/documents/ packed with agronomy insight, variety info and tailored recommendations Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

Today we’re recording live here at AgriiFocus, an Agrii iFarm, at North Farm near Marlborough, Wiltshire. Arable farming is facing an increasingly challenging environment. Improving the resilience of soils, crops and businesses is key to delivering productivity gains. The question is: what action can you take on farm, and what technologies can you adopt? To help you answer those questions, we have our panel: If you have any questions for our speakers, simply email info@agrii.co.uk

Today we’re recording live from West End Farm in Somerset, home to RAJ Morris and their recent blackcurrant harvest. We’re here in the field with Harriet Prosser, agronomist for Ribena, and Matt Greep, fruit and horticultural agronomist with Agrii. Together, we’ll be exploring the unique challenges of growing blackcurrants – from changing weather patterns to the evolving role of agronomy – and hearing how growers are adapting to keep this iconic crop thriving. Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

Live from Groundswell: How can we build a more resilient farm business? Part 1 Farmers are increasingly impacted by policy changes - from regulation to subsidy reform. But what’s on the horizon? And what does it mean for on-farm decisions and long-term business planning? Guests: Part 2 Later in the podcast, we’ll explore practical tips to build better farm resilience. This episode offers a simple checklist to help farmers take action. Guests: CPD points: Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode, date of birth and the podcast title.

Today we’re joined by Agrii’s Tom Perrott, Fertiliser and Crop Inputs Specialist, and Dave Thompson, Farm Manager at Eastbury Estates in Dorset. In this episode, we explore soil health, crop nutrition and how ‘stacking the benefits’ – using alternative sources of nutrition to better support the crop – can, with an innovative approach, strengthen the whole farm operation. To find out more about crop nutrition from Agrii, visit agrii.co.uk/our-services/fertiliser Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

Today we’re joined by Agrii’s Technical Manager, John Miles, David Schafer, Wheat Breeder at RAGT, and Hugh Harley, BIPO representative. As farmers and agronomists weigh up wheat variety choices for the season ahead, we’ll explore Hexton – a new wheat variety – its potential fit for your farm, and how an existing seed royalty scheme could benefit your business. The Agrii 2025 Autumn Yearbook is available now. Visit yearbook.agrii.co.uk Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

The malting barley blueprint, aligning breeding, farming and market needs: big questions and vital for the malting barley industry. To help answer those questions, we have David Griggs, technical director from Crisp Malt, Charlie Catto, agronomist with Agrii and Paul Bury, barley breeder from Secobra Research. We are at the perfect location to ask those questions, recording live at Secobra's spring barley research site in Norfolk. For more information on Agrii's spring barley varieties, visit www.agrii.co.uk/your-crops/cereals/spring-barley Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

Today we are joined by Agrii's David Leaper, seed technical specialist, and Sarah Hawthorne, head of arable products for DSV in the UK. With the area of OSR being grown down this year, crops currently in the ground are looking very good. We are going to reexamine how to get the best out of this crop. What are the latest seed breeding developments and agronomy views? Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening to this podcast. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode and DOB. Your guide to the best WOSR varieties has just landed. Visit yearbook.agrii.co.uk. View the latest national seed yearbook now. Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

Today’s topic of discussion is sustainable grain programmes, focussing on a new offer from Agrii, Viterra and Whitworth Brothers Flour Millers. We are delighted to be joined by Amy Watkins from Agrii, Sam Chambers from Viterra and William Butler from Whitworth. We will explore how sustainable grain programmes can benefit both farmers and supply chain partners economically, enhance industry sustainability and offer consumers value through quality and traceability. Agrii can help you future proof your farming by growing a diverse range of crops together with compressive advice on environmental and sustainable business opportunities. For more information visit agrii.co.uk/sustainability Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.

Today we are joined by Agrii's Jamie Lyttle, agronomist, and Greg Taylor, area business manager and agronomist. Our focus is tackling a real challenge - black-grass - and how, through identifying the problem, field-scale trials were able to find real solutions. Let’s hear from the agronomist on that farm about how possible solutions were identified to help manage this persistent problem. Join us at the Tusmore demo event on 25th June. Book here from 1st May www.agrii.co.uk/events/ Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons.