EU vote to withdraw methiocarb slug pellets
EU Member States have voted to withdraw approval for all methiocarb slug pellets, including Draza forte and Decoy Wetex. The vote means that approvals for all slug bait uses of methiocarb in the EU will be stopped. Publication of the amending regulation is expected by February. This is likely to allow continued sale of Methiocarb […]
Researchers working with police force to combat fake pesticides
Work is currently taking place at the university in Shropshire, led by 52-year-old criminologist and postgraduate student, Chris Sambrook. The findings of this work hope to identify the risk factors associated with counterfeit pesticides and help the industry to reinforce their current counter-measures. In particular, Thames Valley Police are investigating the distribution and use of […]
New research into protecting vegetables from disease, naturally
This research collaboration will assess the impact of plant defence elicitors – compounds that induce a natural defence response – on brassica and allium crops such as cabbages, Brussels sprouts and onions. The results will be of interest not only to large commercial growers but also to vegetable growers in gardens and allotments across the […]
Pesticides ruling to impact farmers
The European Commission has intervened in a dispute between member states to suspend the use of pesticides containing neonicotinoid for flowering crops, which will remain off limits for the next two years. The reasons are based on concerns that neonicotinoids are damaging to bees and other pollinators, which are vital for the pollination of plants, […]
Bean growers get new option for Downy Mildew control
PGRO advised SL567A should be used at the first signs of Downy Mildew, particularly if the crop has just commenced flowering. Up to two applications at a rate of 0.16 l/ha is permitted, with the latest time of application 14-days prior to harvest. In its latest Crop Update the PGRO also advised to always apply […]
Bee health joint proposal announced
Bayer CropScience and Syngenta, today unveiled an action plan to unlock the EU stalemate on bee health. This follows the failure of the European Commission to reach agreement with Member States on an appropriate response to EFSA’s report on the theoretical risk to bee health from neonicotinoid crop protection products. Dr. Rüdiger Scheitza, Member of […]
Pesticide combination affects bees’ ability to learn
Two new studies have highlighted a negative impact on bees’ ability to learn following exposure to a combination of pesticides commonly used in agriculture. The researchers found that the pesticides, used in the research at levels shown to occur in the wild, could interfere with the learning circuits in the bee’s brain. They also found […]
