United Kingdom
August 20, 2010

Results from HGCA's annual forecast of black-grass seed dormancy indicate a medium dormancy year, with no notable regional differences.

Dr James Holmes, HGCA Research Manager said: "Black-grass seed dormancy is influenced by the weather during seed maturation and, similar to 2009, we had a mixed picture this year of cooler weather in June followed by higher temperatures at the beginning of July."

The mean germination rate, based on seed samples collected from across the UK, was calculated at 37% for 2010.

"Medium dormancy is not a result we have seen before, however, like previous years, some samples tested showed lower levels of dormancy, emphasising that local conditions are still important," added James Clarke, ADAS.

The black-grass dormancy survey is conducted annually to help forecast implications of dormancy on emergence patterns and optimise black-grass management.

To view the results in full, click here

Visit www.hgca.com/weedmanagement for more information and management guidance in a medium dormancy year, where HGCA's latest guide 'Managing weeds in arable rotations' and 'Autumn grass weed control in cereals and oilseed rape' can be found.

Website: http://www.hgca.com

Published: August 20, 2010