One might get away with later planting if we get a mild winter, but that’s a risk that one should wish to avoid.

From here on, early vigour is important. This is generally best in hybrids and DK Extrovert and SY Harness are regarded as the best. Watch for slugs with later planting. Seed rates for hybrids might now be 35-45seeds/m² depending on location.

You will need some N in the seedbed but 15 September is the closing date for artificial fertiliser so you might have to opt for organic manures.

Try to confine September planting to barley rather than wheat, for the reasons outlined previously.

For those who must put wheat into difficult ground, then variety resistance to septoria (and yellow rust) becomes more important. This would involve varieties such as Torp, Bennington and Rockefeller.

Plant barley at around 300seeds/m². Early wheat should be planted at 180-200seeds/m² – around 125-140kg/ha (7-8st/ac) but adjust for seed size. The use of Redigo Deter seed dressing for BYDV control is advised for early planting.

Tillage farmers vulnerable to cruelties of the weather

Deadline for sowing winter rape approaching

Any remaining winter rape should really be sown by the end of this week to give it a fair chance, Andy Doyle writes.