Farmers are being left frustrated by the lack of clarity on when they will no longer have access to pesticides for Environmental Focus Areas (EFA).

Earlier this month, the European Commission announced that pesticides will be banned on EFA, but it remains unclear when it will be implemented in Scotland.

The EU decision is to be in place for the 2018 application year but countries can introduce them earlier if they wish.

This is having a detrimental impact on farmers planning crops for next year. Depending on when the ban comes into effect, it will define which EFA options can be used.

Farmers don’t know if using pesticides in 2017 on land destined for EFA in 2018 will result in a breach.

This is critical when deciding on nitrogen fixing crops, fallow or green cover. Being able to spray off fallow before the ban should significantly reduce weeds.

Fungicides on legumes established this year makes a big difference to yield.

It is understood the NFUS officials are meeting with Scottish Government to press for swift clarity on the issue.