Looking back to drive sugar beet crop forward

2026 may be a year that many growers would rather forget. However, from a research perspective, it has been a data-rich year that will help mitigate future challenges. Prof Mark Stevens reflects on the season and looks ahead with optimism for the future.

Autumn is a time of important decisions for beet growers, both for the crop currently in the ground and for setting up future success. Hear our thoughts on fungicide strategies, harvest planning for 2026, and autumn cultivations and cover crops to support the 2027 crop.

BBRO hosted the International Institute of Sugar Beet Research (IIRB) 80th Congress in early July. Providing a great opportunity to hear about the global issues and future developments currently being researched in the world of sugar beet.

With the crop motoring away the risk of further aphid invasions reduces. We look at what else can be found in the crop and how BBRO are working to find solutions.

It's a busy time of year for spray operators, so maybe listen to this in the cab as there are some important changes to chemical data sheets coming later this year. We also give an overview of aphid migration and our weeds trial.

Like many growers BBRO are preparing for changes in the world of weed control in sugar beet - what can you expect?

March sees the release of the Virus Yellows Forecast. Risk is split across the growing region but good preparation and crop vigilance will help in building resilience.

February has been a busy month for BBRO and the wider sugar beet industry with a number of exciting new changes to lead us into the new season. First on the list is the newly released Recommended List for 2027 which provides growers with a wealth of information in an interactive and easy to navigate form. Then we have the new BBRO website and as this is the 50th edition of BeetCast we have also made a few changes to the podcast. We hope you enjoy listening.

On-farm hygiene has always been an important part of sugar beet management but with increasing threats and climate change it has become a priority for all involved.

December is a time of reflection and whilst you may contemplate how well the farm has faired what about your personal growth? Have you invested enough in yourself to reap the benefits in the future? We discuss 3 levels of learning and how each could have a place on your farm.