As the spring drilling window is so wide, it is important to ensure seed rates are adjusted to allow for earlier or later drilling.

There is no cure for BYDV once a plant is infected and with the loss of Deter seed treatment, greater emphasis is placed on well-timed and targeted applications of aphicides.

It is almost impossible when drilling to ensure a field does not have a few seeds that are left on the surface either on the end of the row or where the drill has been refilled. This has not been a big concern in years gone by. However, increasingly it is being seen as unacceptable and could result in more seed treatment products being withdrawn from the market.

Wildflowers can make a colourful display for many months, and can provide an appealing alternative to a lawn.

Using a mixture that contains grass seed will help the area that's been sown look a bit healthier during the winter months when the perennials and annuals are not in flower. However, seed mixes containing grass will require a bit more maintenance, especially during the early years.

Spring focus should turn onto managing existing grassland and assessing which fields need to be re-seeded or over seeded.

To ensure that you are using the correct grass seed mixture for your management system, get in touch with a Wynnstay specialist.

Winter wheat is still an option for many to consider between now and January. However, it is always advisable to make sure you are aware of the latest sowing date which is safe for your specific variety before considering spring crops as an alternative.