Retaining hybrid canola from one season to the next incurred a yield penalty of 0.3t/ha at Quambatook. There was a general penalty of 0.2t/ha for retained seed in the mean yield of all varieties (including OPs) at Horsham. Oil content and test weights of retained seed were lower at Quambatook, but not at Horsham. Retaining hybrid seed compromises plant vigour, disease resistance and herbicide tolerance. The yield advantages (0.2-0.3t/ha) from hybrid varieties, particularly within the Clearfield hybrid varieties, significantly outweigh the initial seed cost of $44/ha at 2kg/ha sowing rate.

• Very high yields were achived in Revenue which indicates the benefit of an early sowing (23rd April). To achieve high yields in Revenue sowing should be undertaken as early as possible. this variety has a strong vernalisation requirement which means that flowering will occur at approximately the same time of year irrespective of sowing date, thereby not increasing the frost risk.
• For further take home messages please see the attached trial report.

Rhizobia type or rate had no effect on yields. However a small adjoining trial showed a trend to increased yield due to rhizobia inoculation when plants were stressed by waterlogging. This is in keeping with results from last year's trial where large differences between inoculated and uninoculated treatments were attributed to waterlogging stress in winter and spring. This year's trial was sown on raised beds. The absence of waterlogging stress and the release of nitrogen from stubble from the previous poppy crop may account for the lack of yield response to inoculation. Yields were high this year, with some adjoining irrigated plots reaching 7 t/ha.

• A significant variation in the rhizoctonia inoculum build-up exists between cereal crops wheat, barley, triticale and cereal rye and their varieties. Inoculum build-up was generally higher in the barley varieties compared to that in other crops. Results are in general agreement with observations in other experiments in the Mallee and on calcareous soils in Eyre Peninsula.
• Differences in inoculum levels carried through summer and seen at sowing in 2016 suggest that farmers may select between cereal crops and their varieties to limit inoculum building during the cereal phase. However, non-cereal break crops are the best option to reduce the pathogen inoculum in a cropping system.
• Soil physical (compaction), chemical (organic C and nutrients) and biological (activity and composition) characteristics and seasonal (temperature and rainfall) factors can influence the growth of R. solani AG8 fungi and the severity of rhizoctonia disease.

The ribbon sowing provided about 137kg/ha more yield, 0.6% less screenings and an average improvement to income of $35/ha; this will be a useful benefit when the system is used for shield spraying for grass.

The results in this years risk management trial emphasised the importance of knowing:

• the nutrient status of your soils prior to sowing, and
• potential of the soils. The starting soil nitrogen at Birchip was particularly low (55kg/ha N) resulting in a significantly lower yield for the Low Input scenario compared to the High Input and Best Bet treatments.

The Low Input scenario also resulted in significantly lower protein and significantly higher screenings. These results suggest that there was not enough nitrogen to sustain a crop even in a dry finish, eventually affecting the final gross margin of the Low Input system.

• Contrasting canola yields were observed at two sites in 2015 highlighting both the potential and the risks of growing canola in the southern Australian low rainfall zone.
• Sowing at the earliest opportunity and applying N at seeding or early in the crop’s development produced the highest grain yields. Purchasing hybrid canola instead of using farmer retained open pollinated canola provided no advantage in 2015.

• Contrasting canola yields were observed at two sites in 2015 highlighting both the potential and the risks of growing canola in the southern Australian low rainfall zone.
• Sowing at the earliest opportunity and applying N at seeding or early in the crop’s development produced the highest grain yields.
• Purchasing hybrid canola instead of using farmer retained open pollinated canola provided no advantage in 2015.

• Contrasting canola yields were observed at two sites in 2015 highlighting both the potential and the risks of growing canola in the southern Australian low rainfall zone.
• Sowing at the earliest opportunity and applying N at seeding or early in the crop’s development produced the highest grain yields.
• Purchasing hybrid canola instead of using farmer retained open pollinated canola provided no advantage in 2015. 

As the climate is changing to warmer conditions and the atmosphere contains more CO2 (also called CO2 fertilisation), crops grow more quickly and mature earlier. It is important to be aware of these effects on crops so that the risk of frost or heat shock reducing crop yield can be better managed. Even though the climate is warming, it is not clear whether the occurrences of frosts are reducing. In fact, there is anecdotal evidence that frost severity and frequency are not changing, which could be because there is reduced moisture in the atmosphere. If this is the case, it will have implications for sowing time and variety choice. Through the use of PA and VR, growers are able to sow different varieties on more frost prone areas. Without this technology, growers would either need to sow different zones separately, reducing efficiencies, or treat the paddock as a whole, which may see reduce yields and risk in various zones. To demonstrate the advantages of this strategy, over the past two seasons, BCG and SPAA have undertaken paddock scale trials. Two demonstrations were undertaken to compare two varieties of different maturity at two different sowing times.

• High Density Legumes (HDLs) offer a profitable 1 year (potentially 2 year) break crop option for cropping rotations, as an alternative to the traditional pulse break crop.
• HDLs offer greater flexibility in that they can be grazed, cut for hay/silage or green manured. They also have the potential to produce significant quantities of regrowth after cutting or grazing, extending the period of high quality green feed on offer after other pastures have dried off.
• HDLs offer substantial benefits to the following crop(s) in the rotation, including high nitrogen input, disease break and weed control (if managed correctly). Their superior economic returns, compared with pulses, depend on the grower's ability to rotationally graze HDLs throughout winter and spring (and early summer if the season permits), and/or the capacity to use or sell large quantities of hay or silag

• In a dry season, there was a small grain yield benefit (90kg/ha) for wheat that followed terminated vetch and field peas (1.5-2.4t/ha of biomass), compared with fallow and terminated medic.
• Soil water benefits from fallow and legume termination don’t occur with dry spring finishes.
• Using soil tests to measure nitrogen mineralisation helps you to properly evaluate the benefit of a legume crop or pasture in a rotation.

• E-W sowing direction yielded 0.24 t/ha higher than N-S on 18 cm row spacing in the 2009 season, despite consistent trends in the opposite direction over the last 4 years.
• Burning stubble (2005-08) yielded 0.2 t/ha higher than retained stubble at 3 t/ha, and had higher protein levels, also an opposite trend to previous years.
• Rhizoctonia was similar in all stubble treatments.

• In low rainfall seasons, (2005-08), north-south sowing increased grain yield by an average of 8.4% compared to east-west.
• Narrow row spacing with retained stubble also showed increased grain yield.
• In 2009 (decile 9+ season) there was a 0.24 t/ha yield advantage in wheat with sowing east-west.
• In 2010 (decile 8-9 season) with Kaspa peas, row direction at sowing had no effect on grain yield.
• Ultimately direction of sowing will depend mostly on paddock shape and direction of sand hills.

• Mean grain yield has been 8.4% higher with north-south over east-west sowing over the last four seasons.
• Grain yield has been higher with narrower row spacings when stubble has been retained.

• An east-west (E-W) sowing direction increased yield over north-south (N-S) sowing direction in an average season.
• The results showed a decline in yield due to weed competition, but no effect on weed competition due to row direction. Sowing in an E-W direction may give a yield benefit with no difference in weed seed set.
• The wider row spacing of 30 cm resulted in a yield reduction and greater weed biomass at harvest.
• There were no differences in yield with ribbon seeding with either 18 or 30 cm row spacings, but ribbon seeding reduced ‘weed’ biomass.

• There was no detectable direct effect of sowing direction this season at Minnipa with a mild spring.
• Using a narrow row spacing of 18 cm instead of 30 cm resulted in wheat yield increasing from 3 t/ha to 3.6 t/ha (19% increase).
• Light interception was very sensitive to sowing direction, and not having ‘weeds’ resulted in higher light within the canopy in the north-south direction compared to east-west.
• Knife point and ribbon seeding systems achieved similar crop establishment and crop performance.

• An east-west (E-W) sowing direction increased yield over northsouth (N-S) sowing direction in an average season.
• The results showed a decline in yield due to weed competition, but no effect on weed competition due to row direction. So sowing in an E-W direction may give a yield benefit with no difference in weed seed set.
• The wider row spacing of 30 cm resulted in a yield reduction and greater weed biomass at harvest.
• There were no differences in yield with ribbon seeding with either 18 or 30 cm row spacings, but ribbon seeding reduced ‘weed’ biomass.

• Row spacing and sowing rate had no impact on grain yield in 2015.

• Similar to other pulse crops growing conditions in 2011 were excellent for faba beans, due to
  extreme rainfall events during the summer of 2010/11 which resulted in soil profiles at or near field capacity at sowing.

• Cereals and lentils are best suited to sowing with narrow rows (23cm or less).
• Faba beans performed best on wide row spacings (36cm).
• Row spacing appeared to make little difference to other broadleaf crops such as canola and other pulses.

• Research to date in Australia suggests optimum rolling time between 3-5 node and crop damage has been recorded from rolling after the 7 node stage. However this trial showed no yield penalty from any time of rolling.
• Lentil rolling is a management practice utilised to create better harvesting conditions and to lower sample contamination. The results from this trial suggests there is flexibility in rolling time and that rolling can be delayed up to the 9 node stage if other management issues are more pressing immediately after sowing. However, this is dependent on the soil and crop health conditions at the time of rolling.
• To avoid crop damage rolling should not occur within 2 weeks of a herbicide application.
• Soils at risk of hard setting or wind erosion should not be rolled PSPE.

• Contrary to expectations Russian Wheat Aphid pressure in Southern Australian cereal production seems low over the last years (2017, 2018). Dry and hot summer conditions seem to reduce green bridge survival of Russian Wheat Aphids.
• Barley grass and Brome grasses are major hosts (van Helden 2018) supporting RWA survival over summer. Their development will strongly depend on summer rainfall.
• Development of regional economic thresholds are in progress at trial sites throughout South Australia,Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales. Use of international thresholds are still advised until Australian thresholds are developed.
• Observations suggest that crop infestations occur in autumn on early growth stages, then persist over winter and can build up in spring, especially when plants are drought stressed.

Higher rates of Triflur Xcel can only be used in a no‐till system where a knife point and press wheel system operated at a suitable sowing speed ensures that soil throw from seeding rows does not fall into adjacent seeding rows thereby avoiding crop damage.
The high levels of ryegrass control achieved in this trial demonstrate how a concentrated band of trifluralin in the top few cm of soil is highly effective when weed seeds are also in this band. The tank mix partners used in the trial, Bouncer and Avadex Xtra, can provide cost effective control over a range of additional weeds, as well as ensuring control of any possible group D resistant ryegrass plants.

• Sakura alone or in combination with Avadex Xtra or Dual Gold provided the best pre-emergence ryegrass control (72 to 94%) in 2010.
• New pre-emergent herbicides like Boxer Gold or Sakura provide good control of trifluralin resistant annual ryegrass.
• Post-sowing pre-emergent herbicide applications provide significantly improved ryegrass control in the crop row, and also give longer residual control.
• Sakura significantly reduced the number of ryegrass heads produced.

Picking out the ryegrass from the cereal crops in spring did not prove to be effective.The ryegrass tiller count data was converted into a contoured map and divided into three zones for each paddock. Once again we compared the manually drawn zones and found a relatively good correlation but not good enough to mplement patch ryegrass management with confidence. A dual boom A more detailed analysis of previous yield maps when farmers determine their ryegrass patches would certainly improve the accuracy of their zone drawings. Any farmer wanting to implement patch ryegrass management should also consider btaining imagery at a time of the year when ryegrass is more visible such as prior to sowing or around crop establishment as these maps would more accurately define the weed patches with less crop effect.

• SAGIT funded trials over the last 3 years have shown the potential of vetch on Eyre Peninsula, leading to the selection of an early flowering (90-95 days) line with increased winter vigour (SA 34876) as a new variety for low rainfall mixed farming systems.
• The last three seasons have been particularly good at Minnipa for both grain and hay production of vetch.
• Piednippie trials have not been as successful as Minnipa, but have still shown with the right management vetch could produce good hay, fodder or grazing on the grey calcareous soils.
• On Eyre Peninsula early sowing (mid- April) can achieve good yield and hay production but is heavily reliant on either good subsoil moisture or late follow-up rain.
• Herbicide choices for vetch are very dependent on local conditions so talk to your local agronomist about the best options available.

Using an effective knockdown with broad spectrum pre-emergent grass herbicide like Sakura can deliver excellent weed control, yields and return on investment not just in the year of application but in following seasons due to a reduction in the seed bank when combined with a complete integrated weed management program across the farm.

This site received only a single knockdown on the 1st June 2010. There was a thick covering of green material present across the trial site when the treatments were applied especially on the header rows which would have compromised coverage and therefore final weed control.  The trial treatments were applied to moist soil on the 1st June. The trial was sown by the grower the following day after treatments were applied with knife point and press wheels on 9 inch row spacing. After sowing there were some clumps of trash caught up in the points particularly in the header rows across the site.

A site inspection on the 29/6/10 confirmed the effectiveness of the glyphosate application with no large weeds observed across the site.

The relatively new herbicide Sakura is currently registered for use in wheat only; in barley this product caused a yield penalty. Effects may not be seen in early stages of plant growth, as Sakura affects the root system. Deep sowing did not have an interaction with Sakura application.

• In 2015 Trojan wheat yields were greater with the highest P rate treatment.
• Bass and Compass barley achieved their highest yields with 30 units of P (kg/ha) applied at sowing.
• Seasonal conditions impacted on trial results; they should be interpreted with caution and used in conjunction with additional soil nutrition information.
• Soil testing and responding to the results is an important component in maximizing yield and profitability of farming enterprises.

Research and development for satellite products in the broadacre cropping industry has been underway for the past 18 months, with Agrecon already having invested over $150,000 in this endeavour. The main focus has been on broadacre winter grains and oilseeds and more recently on sorghum in summer. One of the steps in the planned R&D program was that of collaboration with region specific grower groups. The purpose of this collaboration is to advance Agrecon’s R&D by gaining access to collateral ground data, field observations, crop input and other agronomic information that only individual growers can provide. The Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) with its reputation for openness to innovation and willingness to trial new technology is an ideal collaborator with whom to form a working relationship.

• During 2014 stubble treatments imposed late in fallow generally had no impact on N response. • During 2014 generally farmers in the absence of frost or unusual rainfall events during the season were able to reliably predict final yield before sowing. Where a site was N responsive, an N fertilizer rate of 20kg actual nitrogen/ha/per tonne of expected yield produced the most profitable result. • During 2014 split N applications only improved yield and protein at Nyngan which experienced a well above average growing season rainfall. • During 2014 split N applications would have possibly reduced risk at two sites, Lake Cargelligo and Ungarie where a decision not to apply the final 1/3 topdressing may have been made due to soil moisture and rainfall outlook. • The benchmark of 20kg/ha of actual N per tonne of expected grain yield assumes unrealistic N recover rates from soil and fertilizer but never the less it continues to be a widely used “number” during the commercial decision making process to topdress crops.

• During 2014 stubble treatments imposed late in fallow generally had no impact on N response. • During 2014 generally farmers in the absence of frost or unusual rainfall events during the season were able to reliably predict final yield before sowing. Where a site was N responsive, an N fertilizer rate of 20kg actual nitrogen/ha/per tonne of expected yield produced the most profitable result. • During 2014 split N applications only improved yield and protein at Nyngan which experienced a well above average growing season rainfall. • During 2014 split N applications would have possibly reduced risk at two sites, Lake Cargelligo and Ungarie where a decision not to apply the final 1/3 topdressing may have been made due to soil moisture and rainfall outlook. • The benchmark of 20kg/ha of actual N per tonne of expected grain yield assumes unrealistic N recover rates from soil and fertilizer but never the less it continues to be a widely used “number” during the commercial decision making process to topdress crops.

• The seasonal conditions experienced during these trials had a profound impact on the trial results.
• During 2015 stubble treatments imposed late in fallow had no impact on N response.
• Similar to 2014, during 2015 generally farmers were unable to predict final yield before sowing when the season experienced extreme weather conditions.
• During 2015 split N applications did not improve yields and had only a very minor impact on grain quality.
• During 2015 split N applications was not a way to reduce financial risk as opposed to all N fertiliser upfront since crop outlook at Z30 was positive.

Stubble treatments involving late burning or cultivation resulted in significantly different yields in wheat and barley in 4 to 6 trials conducted at Nyngan, Ungaire, Tullamore, Gunning Gap, Alectown and Lake Cargelligo during 2014. The yield effects were not consistent and these trials could not be used to predict response pre sowing. The effects of stubble treatments observed during 2014 were similar to the effects observed during similar trials in 2013. Variety rankings were not significantly affected by stubble treatments. The best option in terms of yield was to simply grow the variety with the highest potential for the sowing window.

Stubble treatments involving late burning or cultivation resulted in significantly different yields in wheat and barley in 4 to 6 trials conducted at Nyngan, Ungaire, Tullamore, Gunning Gap, Alectown and Lake Cargelligo during 2014. The yield effects were not consistent and these trials could not be used to predict response pre sowing. The effects of stubble treatments observed during 2014 were similar to the effects observed during similar trials in 2013. Variety rankings were not significantly affected by stubble treatments. The best option in terms of yield was to simply grow the variety with the highest potential for the sowing window.

• During 2015 stubble treatments involving late burning or cultivation resulted in significantly different yields in wheat and barley in 2 of 3 trials conducted at Tottenham, Weethalle, and Mumbil Creek.
• The stubble treatments had no effect on cultivar rankings or grain quality at any site.
• The effects of stubble treatments observed during 2015 were similar to the effects observed during similar trials in 2013 and 2014. The trend emerging is best summarised: “Cultivation late in fallow to reduce stubble loads for sowing is the most likely option to reduce yield unless it resolves a physical soil constraint such as compaction or established hard to kill weeds. Burning late in fallow to reduce stubble loads for sowing is unlikely to significantly improve yields compared to sowing into district typical standing stubbles. Burning may be a good last minute option where despite good planning, stubble is still interfering with sowing.”

• Stubble treatments involving late burning or cultivation resulted in significantly different yields in wheat, barley and oats at 4 of 6 trials conducted at Rankins Springs, Weethalle, Wirrinya, Tottenham, Tullamore and Euabalong during 2013. The yield effects were not consistent and these initial trials could not be used to predict response. • Crop establishment was not affected by stubble or tillage treatment at five of the six sites. At Rankins Springs, however, establishment was 15% higher in the burnt stubble than in the standing stubble treatment. • Visual differences in early growth could be observed between stubble treatments. Biomass in mid-August was lower with standing stubble than after burning at three sites (Weethalle, Tottenham and Tullamore) but not at Wirrinya and Euabalong. • Variety rankings were not significantly affected by stubble treatments. The best option in terms of yield was to simply grow the variety with the highest yield potential for the sowing window.

• Stubble treatments involving late burning or cultivation resulted in significantly different yields in wheat, barley and oats at 4 of 6 trials conducted at Rankins Springs, Weethalle, Wirrinya, Tottenham, Tullamore and Euabalong during 2013. The yield effects were not consistent and these initial trials could not be used to predict response.
• Crop establishment was not affected by stubble or tillage treatment at five of the six sites. At Rankins Springs, however, establishment was 15% higher in the burnt stubble than in the standing stubble treatment.
• Visual differences in early growth could be observed between stubble treatments. Biomass in mid-August was lower with standing stubble than after burning at three sites (Weethalle, Tottenham and Tullamore) but not at Wirrinya and Euabalong.
• Variety rankings were not significantly affected by stubble treatments. The best option in terms of yield was to simply grow the variety with the highest yield potential for the sowing window.

• During 2013, in canola crops sown on time that achieved target plant populations, it appears that late burning and/or cultivation of previous crop stubbles improved yield.
• The cost of burning stubble needs to be considered both in terms of dollar labour cost and lost nutrients.
• Potential impact on fallow efficiencies following the canola crop need to be better understood. Burning stubbles may have a fit in paddocks where windrows are being burnt for grass seed control or stubbles are too heavy for seeders to get through.
• The cost of cultivation needs to account for both cost of the operation as well as the risk soil erosion, and the possibility of producing drier seedbed conditions at sowing time.
• CWFS proposes to do further trials in the next two years. Remember this report represents only one year (2013) of data from trials at Rankins Springs, Wirrinya and Tullamore.

• During 2013, in canola crops sown on time that achieved target plant populations, it appears that late burning and/or cultivation of previous crop stubbles improved yield. • The cost of burning stubble needs to be considered both in terms of dollar labour cost and lost nutrients. Potential impact on fallow efficiencies following the canola crop need to be better understood. Burning stubbles may have a fit in paddocks where windrows are being burnt for grass seed control or stubbles are too heavy for seeders to get through. • The cost of cultivation needs to account for both cost of the operation as well as the risk soil erosion, and the possibility of producing drier seedbed conditions at sowing time. • CWFS proposes to do further trials in the next two years. Remember this report represents only one year (2013) of data from trials at Rankins Springs, Wirrinya and Tullamore.

Sowing feed into dwindling lucerne stands; either barley or the newer forage ryecorn varieties resulted in increased weight gains of lambs when compared with those lucerne stands where annual grasses were becoming more dominant allowing lambs to be finished quicker prior to the onset of grass seeds
• Oversowing with Scope CL provides a flexible option in the grazing system with the ability to graze for feed in a seed free environment, or to lock up for grain if seasonal conditions are favourable 
• Heavy stocking rates (and possibly small paddocks or strip grazing methods) are needed to keep newer
forage ryecorn varieties grazed down to maintain feed quality and maximise grazing benefits.

• Even when sowing in April, into drying soil, establishment of canola was better at 1 cm compared to 3 or 7 cm.
• Sowing small OP seed deeper, at 3 and 7 cm, resulted in the poorest establishment and yield.
• In difficult conditions hybrid seed was better able to establish than OP canola.

• Even when sowing in April, into drying soil, establishment of canola was better at 1 cm compared to 3 or 7 cm.
• Sowing small OP seed deeper, at 3 and 7 cm, resulted in the poorest establishment and yield.
• In difficult conditions hybrid seed was better able to establish than OP canola.

• Seed quality: Check the germination and vigour of seed harvested in 2000, or other weather damaged seed.
• Nitrogen: Soil nitrogen levels are likely to be lower in 2001, but will vary depending on summer rainfall, fallow weed control and paddock history.
• Screenings: Pinched and small grain can result from drought stress and high temperatures, foliar disease or inappropriate input levels such as excessive early nitrogen, late sowing or poor soil water extraction.
• Black Point: Black point in wheat is now thought to result from enzyme reactions during ripening, brought on by environmental stresses.

• Growers should check the grain weight, germination of retained seed and calibrate accordingly to achieve consistent plant establishment from season to season.
• Correct seeder calibration amounted to a 0.3t/ha yield or $60/ha gain.
• If phosphorus (P) soil reserves are low, consider increasing P fertiliser rates to achieve optimal yields.

• Low-zinc seed and high-zinc seed oilseed rape genotypes were sown in pots containing zinc-deficient siliceous sand fertilized with low or high zinc supply in a controlled environment.
• After six weeks, plants derived from the high-zinc seed had better seedling vigour, increased root and shoot growth, more leaf area and chlorophyll concentration in fresh leaf, and higher zinc uptake in shoot compared to those from low-zinc seed at low zinc supply .
• The influence of high-zinc seed was dissipated at high zinc supply.
• The results demonstrate that although oilseed rape has very small seeds compared with wheat, zinc reserves present in seed still have a strong impact on early vegetative growth and zinc uptake in zinc-deficient soils.
• The results suggest that sowing high-zinc seed coupled with growing zinc-efficient genotypes may help in sustaining the production of oilseed rape in zinc-deficient soils.

• Rhizoctonia was a problem in all of the plots. It did not appear to favour any of the treatments.
• Plot 5 occurred on an old headland.
• Plot 9 had a sowing gap (of about 30cm) in the middle of the plot that affected about a third of the plot. 

• 18 cm (7”) systems showed better plant establishment in a drier seeding than the 30 cm (12”) system.
• Higher seeding rates resulted in higher grain yield but also higher screenings and lower protein.
• Grass weeds were lower in the higher seeding rate and in the 18 cm row spacing indicating crop competition is a non-chemical weed reduction method.
• Single row or spread row seeding boots showed little differences in plant establishment, grain yield and quality or grass weed competition.

• Reducing row spacing to 18 cm from 30 cm increased grain yield of wheat by more than 0.5 t/ha in 2015 and 2016.
• Increasing seeding rate also increased grain yield in 2015 and 2016.

• Late grassy weed dry matter was 65% lower, and barley grass weed seed set was 57% lower, with a higher seeding rate.
• 18 cm row spacing had 42% lower grass weed dry matter than 30 cm row spacing.
• Single row or spread row seeding boots showed little differences in plant establishment, grain yield and quality or grass weed competition.

• 18 cm (7”) systems showed better plant establishment in a drier seeding than the 30 cm (12”) system.
• Higher seeding rates resulted in higher grain yield but also higher screenings and lower protein.
• Grass weeds were lower in the higher seeding rate and in the 18 cm row spacing indicating crop competition is a non-chemical weed reduction method.
• Single row or spread row seeding boots showed little differences in plant establishment, grain yield and quality or grass weed competition.

The seeding rate debate will continue for some time to come. The BCG has shown in previous trial work that in normal seasons there are yield benefits with higher seeding rates and in low rainfall seasons there is little or no loss in yield with sowing wheat at 200 plants/m2 . Barley appears to require a lower sowing rate of around 150 plants/m2 .

The seeding rate debate will continue for some time to come. The BCG has shown in previous trial work that in normal seasons there are yield benefits with higher seeding rates and in low rainfall seasons there is little or no loss in yield with sowing wheat at 200 plants/m2 . Barley appears to require a lower sowing rate of around 150 plants/m2 .

• Genetic mutations in the Septoria tritici blotch (STB) pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici can differentially influence the performance of triazole fungicides in the laboratory.
• There should continue to be a focus on the principles of an integrated disease management (IDM) approach to control diseases such as STB, using rotation, cultivar resistance, later sowing, and other aspects of cultural control to compliment fungicide control.
• New research on foliar fungicide indicates that the principal fungicides still give good in-field control of STB up to 30 days after application when applied at full label rates.
• There are significant differences in disease control amongst the different fungicide products and rates of application when monitored leaves are assessed more than 30 days after application.
• Single spray timings of foliar fungicide for control of STB made during the late tillering phase gave less effective disease control than applications made at first node (GS31). Spray application delayed until flag leaf gave the poorest control of STB but gave superior leaf rust control later in the season.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction; sheep’s mouths cause damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface; natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this.
• Grazing of stubbles and crops appears to make more N available to crops, which can increase yield; the mechanisms by which this is achieved remain uncertain.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this.
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this. 
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this.
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this.
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this. 
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this.
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

• Sheep grazing on stubbles and crops do not reduce crop yields provided summer weeds are controlled and at least 70% stubble cover (2-3 t/ha cereal stubble) is maintained.
• Reduced water infiltration and yield from grazing are due to removal of cover rather than compaction – it is sheep’s mouths that do damage, not their hooves.
• Sheep do compact soil, but only at the surface and natural shrinking and swelling of soils and sowing with knife points alleviates this.
• Grazing of stubble and crops appears to make more N available to crops which can increase yield, although the mechanisms remain unclear.

Ultimately herbicide selection should be based on the suitability of that product to the sowing conditions, weed pressure and rotational fit while trying to completely control ARG in both single & consecutive years, managing for chemical groups.  Annual ryegrass populations can incre3ase rapidly if in any one year poor control occurs.  Therefore careful rotational planning to include crop types, vaqrieties and herbicide technologies is essential in an overarching control strategy.  From the results observed in this two year trial it is evident that effective weed control in year one results in a reduction in seed season are necessary to reduce weed seed bank numbers potentially making Roundup Ready canola systems more viable in a lower risk situation.  Herbicides with lo binding, moderate solubility and longer persistence such as Sakura tend to offer higher levels of weed control.  It is also clear that herbicide technology is not straight forward and attention to detail can mean the difference between a mediocre and first-rate result.  Chemical efficacy can be influenced by a number of factors, especially when using pre-emergent herbicides in a combined chemical IWM strategy.  Little things like stubble load, method of application, level of seedbed cultivation, incorporation timing and technique, rainfall after sowing and the suitability of that herbicide for the particular situation can add incremental gains for the overall result.  For RR canola and TT canola ensure to use every option available, don't settle for just 1 application of RR or rely solely on triazine chemicals for effective control of weeds.

Annual ryegrass control is a long term holistic proposition and no 1 or 2 control methods will solve your issues.  It must be tackled with multiple techniques.

• On average in the Mediterranean Mallee environment, sub-tropical grasses grow best during late spring and early summer when soil temperatures are rising and soil moisture is available.
• Unless significant rain occurs after December, the growth rate of sub-tropical grasses is typically low in the period December to April.
• Subtropical grasses are dormant in the winter months, so weed control measures are relatively easy and the inclusion of annual medics may be possible.
• The standing fodder of sub-tropical grasses can potentially be carried over for grazing later in summer.

Nineteen experiments in the Mallee, over four years, have shown that mid-row banding does as well as top-dressing in obtaining yield and protein improvements over more conventional methods of nitrogen application at sowing (eg, broadcast, and incorporated at sowing).

• Grain yields reached 80% of their potential water use efficiency in a decile 5 growing season.
• Variable rate strategies did not result in improved yields over blanket strategies and the costs of the inputs ensured the blanket nil fertiliser treatment was at least economically comparable to the other options evaluated.

• The purpose of 2010 was to establish this long-term trial and baseline soils analysis
• Due to limited funding no formal monitoring took place and all results and analysis was visual.
• The Spader caused the trial area to be soft and as such sowing depth was compromised. Some furrows were partially collapsed, burying the seed even deeper. This cause patchy germination on the spaded area.
• Perennials did not germinate due to lack of spring and summer rain- these may need to be re-seeded in 2011.
• Unfortunately some of the treatments were affected by aphids, eg Dalkeith and to a lesser extent Bartolo Bladder clover and Rose Clover.
• Due to a very dry finish there appeared to be very poor seed set on all treatments.
• Low clay rates of 60T without incorporation was effective in aiding establishment of seeded varieties and could be an economic option for establishing annual pasture on poorer non-wetting sands.
• At at current levels. This option produced high quality pasture which was a great improvement over the control and on a larger scale may sustain higher stocking rate and or growth rates.

• The purpose of 2010 was to establish this long-term trial and baseline soils analysis
• Due to limited funding no formal monitoring took place and all results and analysis was visual.
• The Spader caused the trial area to be soft and as such sowing depth was compromised. Some furrows were partially collapsed, burying the seed even deeper. This cause patchy germination on the spaded area.
• Perennials did not germinate due to lack of spring and summer rain- these may need to be re-seeded in 2011.
• Unfortunately some of the treatments were affected by aphids, eg Dalkeith and to a lesser extent Bartolo Bladder clover and Rose Clover.

 

• Good soil moisture conditions at sowing reduced the impact of repellence on establishment; all treatments established a healthy number of plants.
• Claying improved crop establishment, growth and grain yield in 2011; this appears to be driven by better seedbed moisture retention and reduced nutrient leaching, espeically nitrogen.
• Good soil moisture conditions during grain fill minimised any water shortage (haying off) effects from claying.
• Cultivation treatment had no impact on grain yield, possibly because seasonal conditions were not conductive to showing differences or because the cultivation impacts are reducing over time, ongoing assessment should clarify this.
• Drier conditions at seeding and harder finishes would be expected to result in greater impact from the repellence management treatments.

• N2O emissions at the Gunnedah site were approximately 10 times higher than at the Emerald site, due to the wet soil conditions and high pre-season rainfall at Gunnedah which led to denitrification of N from pre-season anhydrous ammonia application.
• Two nitrification inhibitors, DMPS (“Big N-sure”, Incitec Pivot Fertilisers) and nitrapyrin (“N-serve”, Dow AgroSciences) directly injected into anhydrous ammonia during pre-plant N application delayed the conversion of applied ammonium in the soil to nitrate for a period of 2–3 months.
• At the Gunnedah site, cumulative N2O emitted was reduced by 86% (DMPS) and 65% (nitrapyrin), compared to untreated ammonia.

Conclusions: 

In a season such as that experienced at the Emerald 2016–17 site, there were only minor environmental benefits from using a nitrification inhibitor in conjunction with anhydrous ammonia. However, these experimental conditions may not be typical as pre-plant fertiliser is usually applied earlier in the year at Emerald than it was at this site. A longer period of time between pre-plant application and plant establishment would provide greater opportunity for N2 O losses to occur, although the potential for heavy winter rainfall tends to be low in the Emerald region. While both inhibitor products clearly reduced emissions during the first two measurement periods, it was apparent that the effectiveness of these products had dissipated by the time of the second irrigation. The additional inhibitor application with the side-dressed urea boosted the N2 O reduction period for the DMPP treatment, while the application of untreated urea to the other treatments allowed further losses matching those of the untreated control after the initial pre-plant N application. The 2016–17 Gunnedah experiment provided the perfect testing conditions for nitrification inhibitors as the soil was very wet at application, and received frequent heavy rainfall during the next 3 months. These inhibitors were designed to retain mineral N from applied N fertiliser in the soil during periods of excessive rainfall that may otherwise lead to large losses of nitrate N through denitrification and leaching. Leaching occurs through downward movement of nitrate with water in the soil, but we found no evidence of this having occurred in the soil core samples we took just prior to sowing. For heavy clay soils such as this one at Gunnedah, denitrification of soil nitrate during periods of anaerobic soil conditions is the most likely major N loss pathway. The results of the gas sampling campaigns highlighted the almost complete mitigation of N2 O emissions during this period by adding nitrification inhibitors. The Big N-sure® inhibitor appeared to remain active for longer in the soil than the N-serve®.

Soil testing prior to sowing revealed that chemical properties were highly variable between zones (see Table 1 in attached Trial report). For example, over a distance of 100 m between the midslope and the swale, soil organic carbon levels nearly doubled from 0.22 to 0.40. Topsoil phosphorus levels also increased from just above the marginal level of 20 (Colwell) on the midslope to nearly 30 (Colwell) on the swale. 

• The trial provides strong support for the use of soil-specific N management to improve profitability and risk management on Mallee dune-swale paddocks.
• Sandy soil types have consistently showing yield responses to increased inputs of N, while the heavy swale soils have not shown a yield benefit of increased N inputs.
• Nil fertiliser (N and P) has been the most profitable fertiliser treatment on the heaviest swale soil and the least profitable elsewhere.
• There was still a measurable response in 2013 to a pasture break in 2009.

• Field experiment to test the relative effectiveness of a zinc spray to the soil surface compared to zinc-enriched fertilizers.
• These results suggest that zinc-enriched fertilizers which are of a heterogeneous nature will not be effective at correcting zinc deficiency in the year of application, or in the following year.
• Both soil sprays of zinc pre-sowing and zinc-enriched fertilizers drilled with the seed of a homogeneous nature are effective at correcting zinc deficiency.

• Row direction was the only factor that affected final grain yield at this site in this season.
• Sorghum sown in a north–south direction yielded 7% more than sowing east–west.
   

Key message:

• Varying row direction from north–south or east–west did not affect grain yield or quality.
• Row configuration did not affect grain yield, however, there were some effects on grain quality. The solid row configuration produced higher grain protein and screenings levels, but lower test weight than the superwide and single skip treatments.
• There were differences between the hybrids for grain yield and quality. MR Apollo and MR 43 produced higher yields than 84G22. Differences in grain quality were also found, with MR Apollo producing a higher grain protein level and 1000-grain weight than the other two hybrids.

Conclusions:

The effect from row direction on plant structures was minor, with only an increase in plant establishment detected from the north–south direction compared with the east–west direction. This difference did not translate into higher tiller or head production per hectare. There were slightly more tillers per plant and heads per plant from the east–west direction, but again this did not correlate with higher yields. Row configuration did not affect plant establishment or tillering, however, there were more heads produced per hectare from the solid configuration compared with the single skip. This did not translate into a difference in grain yield; however, there were some impacts on grain quality. The solid row configuration produced higher grain protein and screenings levels, but lower test weights than the superwide and single skip treatments. There were differences between the hybrids for grain yield, with MR Apollo and MR 43 producing higher yields than 84G22. There were also differences in grain quality, with MR Apollo producing a higher grain protein level and 1000-grain weight than the other two hybrids The results from this experiment suggest that there is no economic value in altering the sowing direction of rows to either north–south or east–west, or any yield benefit from altering row configuration between solid, single skip or superwide.

• The demonstration sites in 1999 received Decile 1 (lowest 10% of rainfall recordings).
• As a consequence waterloggin did not occur.
• Delayed time of sowing and inaccurate seed placement on the raised beds at a number of sites attributed to yield differenes between the treatments.

• Industrial hemp shows potential as a summer irrigated rotation crop
• Shallow sowing (10-20 mm depth) is key to successful emergence and establishment
• High plant density (>75 plants/m2) allows hemp plants to outcompete co-germinating weeds

• Water salinity above approximately 1500 ppm (2.7 dS/m) causes leaf burn and death of young plants

• Varieties still being evaluated for suitability to Riverland and Limestone Coast regions

Two NVT barley trials were sown in the South Eeast (SE) region of South Australia (SA) in 2018. The Keith trial was
sown on the 16th May and the Bordertown trial site was sown on the 6th June. Long term yield performance (2014
– 2018) from the trial sites are shown in Tables 1 and 2. Both sites experienced frost conditions and extreme heat
conditions throughout the flowering period. Interpret results with caution.

Full NVT data including individual site yields and grain quality can be accessed online at www.nvtonline.com.au.
All NVT data shown is sourced from this site and varietal information is sourced from the 2019 SARDI sowing guide

(https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/all-publications/publications/2019/south-australian-crop-sowing-
guide).

 

• Sowing barley varieties at the optimal time for each cultivar can significantly increase performance.
• Sowing barley on 21st May (TOS 1) increased yield when compared to later sowing on 26th June (TOS 2).
• Some malting varieties sown at TOS 1 had low test weights which failed the malting standard .
• Oxford had the highest yield of all varieties, at 9.0 t/ha, when sown at TOS 1.
   

• The frequency of winter cereals in the rotation have a large impact on crown rot inoculum build up.
• Monitoring paddocks over time is a powerful way to help crown rot management and the PreDictaB™ soil tests are an effective method for achieving this.
• The dominant wheat–canola rotation in southern NSW is increasing the region’s level of risk to losses caused by crown rot.
• Not all paddocks behave the same way and factors other than crop type are affecting crown rot behaviour.

• 55% of paddocks tested in 2014 and 80% of paddocks in 2015 had crown rot.
• 90% of paddocks tested in 2014 and 2015 had take all.
• The previous crop grown in the paddock can greatly influence the pre-sowing levels of crown rot and take all in the following year, particularly in a cereal on cereal rotation.
• Most paddocks with pre-sowing levels of crown rot and take all had increased inoculum levels throughout the growing season.
• Crop rotation and duration, and stubble management can reduce crown rot and take all infection risk.

• Maximise wheat yields by ensuring as much crop flowers during the optimal period as possible – sow on time or early!
• Early sown, slow maturing varieties (winter and spring) yield as well as or better than faster maturing varieties sown later.
• Including an early sown variety in a cropping program can greatly increase whole-farm yield.
• Extra management needs to be considered for disease and nutrition, particularly Septoria tritici.
   

Results from the Northern Agricultural Region have shown that crops can be sown over subtropical perennial grasses without jeopardizing persistence of the perennial base. However, perennial grasses vary in their tolerance to in-crop herbicides and crop yield is dependent on effective weed control, adequate fertility and moisture, and winter dormancy (or suppression) of the perennial pasture.

Pasture cropping systems can also lift overall biomass production, improve the feed value of stubbles, provide out of season fodder, and reduce the likelihood of wind erosion and groundwater recharge on deep sandy soils.

The application of additional nitrogen can lead to greater biomass in both the annual crop and perennial pasture. However, this is dependent on seasonal conditions and the economics of applying additional nitrogen needs to be considered carefully on low moisture holding, infertile, sandy soils in the Northern Agricultural Region.

• In a season characterised by low frost severity, Nuseed Diamond was the highest yielding variety for all three sowing dates.
• In a low frost severity season, earlier sowing on 27 March and 11 April achieved a higher grain yield compared with the later sowing on 30 April.
• Triazine tolerant varieties were generally lower yielding compared with other varieties with a similar phenology.
• Winter type canola yield and oil performance were comparable with spring types when sown before mid April and could be worth considering as a dual-purpose crop due to the additional value generated from grazing.

• Seasonal conditions, characterised by low frost incidence combined with heat stress and terminal drought conditions, significantly affected grain yield and quality responses.
• The highest yields were associated with earlier flowering; there was a significant yield penalty associated with later flowering of slower developing genotypes or when sowing was delayed.

• Seasonal conditions significantly affected phenology and yield responses to sowing date among barley varieties in 2019.
• Phenology significantly influenced yield and quality responses, whereby later flowering incurred severe yield and quality penalties, affecting overall profitability.

• Chickpea yields were again high in 2011, averaging 3.8t/ha.
• Favourable growing conditions and minimal disease resulted in equal or higher yields from
  early sown treatments.
• Lodging of chickpeas was high in 2011, particularly where sown early. CICA0603, CICA0857
  and Genesis079 were the most susceptible varieties to lodging.

• Winter and spring seasonal conditions favoured faba bean production in 2010, and as a consequence plants were able to maximise pod fill so that the highest sowing density yielded highest.
• Yield was generally maximised at the later sowing date except Farah and Fiord, which showed no difference in yield at either sowing date.
• Increasing plant density increased ascochyta blight infection, likely resulting from increased
  canopy humidity.
• Fiord and Nura showed increased ascochyta blight infection when sown early, consistent
  with other recent findings.
• Lodging was worse for thicker sown and earlier sown beans, particularly at wider row
  spacings in 974* and Farah due to their bulkier canopies.

• Winter and spring seasonal conditions favoured faba bean production in 2010, and as a consequence plants were able to maximise pod fill so that the highest sowing density yielded highest.
• Yield was maximised at the early sowing date by all varieties except Farah, whose later
  maturity meant it could capitalise on the rains in late spring and into summer.
• Fiord showed a relatively high yield penalty from delayed sowing in a favourable season,
  most likely due to its early maturity so that it could not make the most of the favourable
  season finish.
• Lodging was worse for earlier sown beans, particularly Farah, as observed at Conmurra this
  year.
• Farah showed the largest reduction in plant height by delayed sowing, which may be linked
  to its similar yields at both sowing dates.

• Faba bean yields at Bool Lagoon were again high in 2011 despite below average growing
  season rainfall, being buoyed by high summer rainfall and minimal disease.
• Varieties performed similarly at Bool Lagoon in 2011, and plant density generally had a  greater influence on yield than variety choice.
• There was a general yield response to increasing sowing density from 16 to 32 plants/m2 in
  2011, particularly at the later sowing date, however previous research has shown a link to
  increased disease pressure which may negate any potential yield advantage from this higher seeding rate. The recommended seeding rate for beans (24 plants/m2) performed similarly to the high seeding density for all varieties

• Early sown chickpea in a LRZ were generally higher yielding than the mid June sowing date.
• PBA Slasher again topping the grain yields across sowing dates and plant populations.
• Plant populations of 30 plants/m2 show significant advantage over 15plants/m2. There was not
  yield advantage in sowing heavier and achieving 45 plants/m2.

• Sowing after the start of May resulted in a reduction in expected yields compared to previous seasons
• Delaying sowing reduced Faba bean yields by approximately 0.3t/ha
• There was significant difference between varieties and with delayed sowing
• PBA Nura was the best performed variety at both sowing dates
• There was little disease pressure.

• Faba bean yields at Tarlee were again high in 2011 despite below average growing season rainfall, being buoyed by high summer rainfall and minimal disease.
• Disease levels were generally low in 2011, and there was very little disease pressure in this trial.
• Although rust outbreaks were observed across the state no rust was evident in this trial.
• The favourable season, together with minimal disease and minimal lower pod abortion, meant that yield was close to reaching maximum potential.

• Due to early season waterlogging grain yields of lupin on Lower Eyre Peninsula were variable and generally poor in 2011 and no effect of variety choice and row spacing on grain yield was observed.
• However a sowing date response did occur with the mid sown lupins outyielding early and late
  sown lupins.

• Sowing after the start of May resulted in a reduction in expected yields compared to previous seasons.
• Delaying sowing reduced Faba bean yields by approximately 0.3t/ha
• There was significant difference between varieties and with delayed sowing
• PBA Nura was the best performed variety at both sowing dates
• There was little disease pressure.

• Stubble treatments showed no yield difference in 2011, however differences in plant height and
  lodging were observed throughout the season which may aid harvestability, particularly in shorter seasons with less biomass

• The trial results show that time of sowing has a significant impact on grain yields. Varieties need to be sown at the optimum time to maximize grain yield which in this experiment was at the early time of sowing (late April).

• Winter and spring seasonal conditions favoured faba bean production in 2010.
• Yield was generally maximised at the early sowing date.
• Lodging was worse for earlier sown beans, particularly Farah and Nura.
• While early sown beans had higher ascochyta blight infection than late sown beans, there
  was no difference in severity between bean varieties.
• Chocolate spot severity was low at this site in 2010, and there was no difference between
  varieties or sowing dates.

• Bean yields at Conmurra were significantly lower in 2011 than in 2010.
• This trial was located in much shallower soil in 2011 than 2010, and yield was suppressed by dry conditions and several frost events during September and October.