Speaking at the trials plots of the PGRO Open Day this week, Nickerson product manager, Les Daubney, pointed out that a strong revival of the pulse crop acreage is in prospect for next season: “Clearly the huge hike in fertiliser prices has made many growers take a fresh look at pulses and, if the acreage takes off next season, spring beans will lead the way.”

Looking to the future, Nickerson Pulse Breeder, Keith Fox, highlighted that breeding investment in pulses offers great potential: “We have seen a leap forward in cereal yields over the past few years driven to a large extent by improved varieties.  There have already been similar advances in pulse varieties, and there are indications of even greater improvements to come.  For example, spring beans now in the trials system show a possible 20% yield improvement on current varieties.  The best of these should come through as candidates for the recommended list in 2009-10.”

“The challenge to breeders is to fix this increase in yields while maintaining quality and appearance.  Whatever the yield, if the end users do not like the resulting product, the variety will not make it,” he added.

Note:
Les Daubney has just been appointed Nickerson Oilseeds and Pulse Product Manager with responsibility for the company’s oilseeds, combining pea and field bean business.  He has worked in the seed trade for over 20 years and was previously the company’s Vining Pea Co-ordinator.

For further information contact Les Daubney or Keith Fox on 01472 370154.

To download a free copy of our Pulse Growers Guide, click on the link below
or email enquiries@nickerson.co.uk for a free hard copy.