From the Ground Up, Issue 79

Arable growers worried that some weeds in their crops may have developed herbicide resistance can now get the suspected plants tested for free. Find out how you can take part here.

Stem rust (Puccinia graminis subsp. graminicola) is the most damaging of the ryegrass diseases. This update discusses how different fungicide programmes and timings affect seed yield. It compares early versus late applications and offers practical advice to help growers improve rust control and maximise returns.

Welcome to the revised 2025 version of  The drying and storage of grain and herbage seed, first published in 1999. The book comprises six chapters that cover grain characteristics and their reaction to climate, the importance of seed moisture, the drying system, the storage environment, storage pests and their control, and construction considerations. These have been edited and updated by FAR staff and independent experts from the original chapters written by the late Murray Hill.

A velvetleaf find in a paddock that has been ‘clean’ for seven years, is a clear reminder of how long this weed’s seed will remain viable.

This AIMI survey of maize growers provides details of the 2025 New Zealand maize grain and silage harvest, along with sowing intentions for the coming year.

If you couldn't make it to ARIA this year, make sure you check out the booklet here. 

Read the full arable industry code of conduct here. 

This Arable Update describes the biology of small broomrape and initial data on control options including herbicides and their application timing.

This Arable Update outlines practical strategies for using SDHIs effectively in the field while protecting their long-term efficacy.

This Update outlines the latest results on how Zymoseptoria tritici (Zt), the fungus that causes Septoria tritici blotch (STB), is responding to succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI - Group 3) fungicides in New Zealand wheat crops.