Black-grass is an unwanted but familiar sight on many arable farms across the UK. It’s one of the most prolific weeds in England, with 63%* of farmers saying they have issues with it. There isn’t a miracle cure, but there are effective strategies to reduce black-grass pressure and protect yields.
The Bad News
Black-grass competes aggressively for nutrients (especially nitrogen), light and water, cutting output and quality. Average yield losses of 0.4–0.8 t/ha are common at populations of 12–25 plants/m², and losses of 2+ t/ha can occur where densities exceed 100 plants/m².
The Good News
Investing in land drainage improves soil structure and creates conditions that are less favourable to black-grass establishment and survival. Well-drained, well-structured soils warm up and dry more evenly, support timely cultivations and drilling, and reduce compaction — all of which help reduce black-grass pressure.
At the Cereals Event in 2016, 81%* of attendees agreed that good drainage would help tackle black-grass. One of our customers, David Jones (Hatton Bank Farm, Stratford-upon-Avon), told us: “It is so important to maintain well-drained land for the control of black-grass. It thrives in wetter, heavier soils and I know many farms are still struggling to recover from the wet harvest of 2012.”
Where to Get Advice & Proven Products
We’re one of the UK’s leading suppliers of drainage products — all backed by the UK’s longest drainage guarantee:
For expert help choosing the right system for your soils and rotation, call 0121 351 3230.
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*Data collected from a drainage survey at the 2016 Cereals Event