What is the AHDB Recommended List?
The AHDB Recommended List (RL) is a comprehensive guide to the UK’s top-performing crop varieties, providing growers with the information they need to make informed seed choices. It is compiled by animal and crop scientists working on behalf of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), a UK government-sponsored organization that works to improve farming standards, productivity, and efficiency.
The RL has been in existence since the 1960s, and over the years, it has become recognized as the go-to source for independent information on the performance, yield, and suitability of different crop varieties for UK growing conditions. The list covers a wide range of crops, including cereals, oilseeds, pulses, potatoes, and grasses, and is updated annually to reflect the latest research findings.
The RL provides valuable guidance to UK growers, who are under constant pressure to maximize their productivity and profitability while minimizing their environmental impact. By selecting crop varieties that have been proven to perform well under UK conditions, growers can reduce risk and optimize their yields, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of their businesses.
One of the key strengths of the RL is that it is based on rigorous scientific testing carried out by trusted experts. Each variety included in the list has been trialed extensively, with data collected on a range of key performance indicators, including yield, disease resistance, quality, and profitability. This information is then presented in a clear and accessible format, making it easy for growers to compare different varieties and make informed decisions about which ones to plant.
In addition to providing information on specific crop varieties, the RL also includes guidance on crop management practices and the use of pesticides and fertilizers. This helps to ensure that growers are using sustainable farming practices that minimize their impact on the environment while still achieving their production goals.
The AHDB Recommended List is an important tool for UK growers, but it is also of wider significance. By providing independent, science-based information on crop varieties and management practices, the list helps to improve farming standards across the UK, making the industry more sustainable, innovative, and productive. Whether you are a veteran farmer or a new entrant to the industry, the RL is an essential reference that is well worth consulting when making seed choices and formulating your crop management strategy.
How is the List Compiled?
The AHDB Recommended List is a comprehensive database of the best performing cereal varieties in the UK, which includes wheat, barley, and oat. It is developed through a rigorous process that ensures only the top-performing crop traits are included in the list.
The process of compiling the AHDB Recommended List begins with the collection of data from various crop trials carried out across the UK. The data collected are based on various traits that determine crop performance, such as disease resistance, yield potential, and grain quality, among others. These trials are conducted by independent national testing agencies under standardised conditions to ensure that the data collected is reliable and accurate.
The collected data is then analysed by AHDB’s technical experts, who evaluate the data and apply statistical models to it. The models used are designed to remove any environmental variation that may affect the validity of the results. This ensures that the results produced are reliable and reflective of the crop’s genetic characteristics rather than environmental influences.
The initial analysis results in what is known as the Descriptive List. This list contains a set of crop varieties that show potential based on their performance traits. However, not all crops that perform well on the Descriptive List make it to the AHDB Recommended List. To further refine the list, the crops are subjected to additional rigorous testing.
These tests, known as the National List Trials, are carried out over two years, with each crop variety tested at several different locations across the UK. The trials are conducted under strict conditions, including the use of a control variety that has a known performance level, to ensure that the results obtained are reliable.
The crop varieties are evaluated based on various performance traits, such as yield potential, disease resistance, grain quality, and agronomic characteristics like lodging resistance. The results of the National List Trials are used to produce the AHDB Recommended List, which includes only the top-performing varieties.
The AHDB Recommended List is a valuable tool for farmers and agronomists looking to maximise their crop performance, as it provides reliable information on the best-performing crop varieties.
In summary, the AHDB Recommended List is developed through a rigorous process that involves the collection of data from independent crop trials, followed by the application of statistical models to remove any environmental variation. The best-performing varieties are then further subjected to rigorous testing, with only the top-performing crop varieties making it to the final list.
Seed Quality Standards
Seed quality standards are crucial to ensure that farmers get the best seeds for their crops. The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) recommended list has guidelines to ensure that farmers get high-quality seeds. These seeds must meet specific requirements to be considered suitable for farming.
The first requirement for seed quality is high germination percentage. This means that more than 85% of the seeds must be able to sprout and develop into healthy plants. Seeds with low germination rates result in low yields and can be costly for farmers in the long run. As such, farmers must always check the germination percentage of seeds before purchasing them. However, different crops have different germination percentages, and farmers must be aware of this when buying seeds.
The second requirement for seed quality is purity. Seeds must be free from dirt, dust, and other impurities. Seeds must also be the variety that the farmer intends to plant. Purity is particularly important because planting impure seeds and the wrong variety can lead to losses in yield. The presence of impurities also affects the seed’s ability to germinate and grow into a healthy plant. AHDB recommends that seeds have a purity level of at least 98%. Farmers must always purchase seeds from reputable companies to ensure purity.
Thirdly, seed quality standards require seeds to be free of diseases and pests. Damaged seeds may carry diseases that are harmful to plants, and planting them will result in a poor harvest. Farmers should ensure that the seeds they purchase have undergone intense scrutiny to ensure they are free from diseases and pests. Seed testing is essential, and the recommended list provides guidelines on how to conduct seed testing. The testing process helps farmers to avoid seed-borne diseases and pests that can destroy crops.
Fourthly, seed quality standards require seeds to be genetically pure. Plant breeders develop new varieties of seeds to improve yield and resistance to pests and diseases. It is essential to ensure that the seeds’ genetic purity to prevent contamination by other genetic material. The contamination can result in the hybridization of the pure genetic makeup, leading to a reduction in yield and quality. Farmers must take extra care to ensure that the seeds are genetically pure.
Finally, seed quality standards require that seeds have good storage capabilities. Seeds must maintain their high germination rates for an extended period. Adequate storage of seeds minimizes the risk of diseases and pests. Proper storage conditions also protect the seeds from temperature fluctuations and moisture. The recommended list provides guidelines for the optimum storage conditions for various seeds. Farmers must always adhere to these guidelines to ensure the longevity and quality of their seeds.
In conclusion, the AHDB recommended list provides a comprehensive set of guidelines for seed quality standards. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for farmers who want to improve their yields and get the best value for their money. The seed quality standards require that seeds meet specific requirements such as high germination percentage, purity, freedom from disease and pests, genetic purity, and good storage capabilities. Farmers must be vigilant when buying seeds and ensure that they meet the recommended list’s guidelines.
The Importance of Using the AHDB Recommended List
The agricultural industry is the backbone of the UK economy, and whether you’re a small farmer or a large agri-business, everyone wants to maximize their crop yield and profit margins. But with so many crop varieties available, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. That’s where the AHDB Recommended List can help.
The AHDB Recommended List is produced annually by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) in the UK, providing growers with a list of the most promising crop varieties available in the market. This list is scientifically researched and evaluated to provide growers with the most reliable and up-to-date information on crop varieties that exhibit high yield potential, resistance to diseases, and tolerance to unfavorable conditions.
This recommended list has become an essential tool in the agricultural industry for the following reasons:
1. Increased Yield Potential: By using the AHDB Recommended List, growers have access to a range of crop varieties that have undergone extensive testing to determine their yield potential. This means that growers can select the most suitable crop variety that can produce the highest yield with the lowest input costs – maximizing profits and reducing wastage.
2. Disease and Pest Resistance: Another advantage of using the AHDB Recommended List is that growers can choose crop varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases. This is advantageous because it means that they can minimize the need to use costly pesticides that can also have adverse effects on the environment and user health. Crop varieties with higher disease resistance also promote sustainable agriculture practices!
3. Tolerance to Adverse Conditions: It’s no secret that weather patterns can be unpredictable, and crops are often at the mercy of adverse conditions such as extreme heat, drought, or flooding. By using the AHDB Recommended List, growers can choose crop varieties that exhibit tolerance to such unfavorable conditions. This means the crops are more likely to survive and produce, even in challenging climatic conditions.
4. Better Investment Decisions: The use of the AHDB Recommended List can also help growers make better investment decisions. By selecting the most promising crop varieties, they can invest their time and resources in crops that are more likely to produce high yields and profits. This means that they can reduce risks associated with crop failure and make better long-term investments in their businesses.
The AHDB Recommended List is an invaluable resource for growers looking to optimize their crop yield and profitability while promoting sustainable agriculture practices. By selecting the most promising crop varieties, growers can make informed decisions that will help them remain competitive in the market while minimizing their risks and impact on the environment.
Top Recommended Varieties for 2021
The AHDB Recommended List is a valuable tool for UK farmers looking to select the best performing varieties for their farm operations. From cereals and oilseeds to beans, this comprehensive list helps farmers make informed decisions while providing independent and unbiased information. Here are the top recommended varieties for 2021 that will help farmers achieve the highest yields with the best quality crops.
1. Winter Wheat
Winter wheat is one of the most widely grown crops in the UK for its high yield and excellent quality. The recommended varieties for 2021 include Graham, Gleam, and Skyscraper, with Graham being the highest yielding variety. Gleam is an early-maturing variety recommended for late drilling while Skyscraper is a soft wheat variety known for its high yield and grain quality.
2. Barley
Barley is a more drought-tolerant crop than wheat and can produce good yields even in harsh conditions. The recommended varieties for 2021 include LG Diablo, LG Mountain, and SY Kingsbarn, with LG Diablo being the highest yielding. LG Mountain is another high-yielding variety with excellent resistance to disease, while SY Kingsbarn is recommended for livestock feed due to its high starch content.
3. Oilseed Rape
Oilseed rape is an essential crop for the UK agricultural economy, used primarily for oil production, with the harvested meal also a significant source of animal feed. The recommended varieties for 2021 include Ambassador, Aspire, and Barbados, with Ambassador being the highest yielding. Aspire is a winter-hardy variety with excellent early growth and yield potential, while Barbados is recommended for its exceptional disease resistance, making it highly suitable for the UK’s climate.
4. Spring Beans
Spring beans are a great crop for fixing nitrogen in soils, reducing the need for fertilizers and improving the soil’s fertility. The recommended varieties for 2021 include Lynx, Fanfare, and Fuego, with Lynx being the highest yielding. Fanfare is an early-maturing variety with excellent plant standability, while Fuego is winter-hardy and known for its high yield potential.
5. Sugar Beet
Sugar beet is another essential crop for the UK agricultural economy used for sugar production. The recommended varieties for 2021 include BTS 770, BTS 320, and Benicia, with BTS 770 being the highest yielding. BTS 320 is an early-maturing variety with excellent bolting tolerance, while Benicia is a later-maturing variety known for its high sugar yields and good disease resistance.
The AHDB recommended list of 2021 provides a clear indication of which varieties are best suited for UK farmers and which crops are most suitable for various soil types and weather conditions. Farmers can use this list to help them select the best-performing varieties and ultimately increase their farm yields and profitability.
