Welcome to our Insights
Each month, we bring you the latest updates on agricultural policy and regulation, industry news, science and innovation, and relevant publications for useful insights. Stay up to date with changes in policy, catch up on significant industry news, discover cutting-edge scientific breakthroughs, and access valuable publications to help you make informed decisions.
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Dr Dannielle Robb
Jul, 22 2025The 2025 harvest has begun earlier than any year since 2006, with initial results showing encouraging yields for wheat and barley, despite regional variability. Protein levels in milling wheats are exceeding expectations, and early data suggests a more favourable season than last year. Read on for full yield ranges and quality insights to start harvest 2025 off.
Dr Dannielle Robb
Jul, 07 2025This month’s digest includes:
• Funding opportunities such as the Farming Technology Fund and Anglian Water training support
• Key information regarding Animal Health & Welfare Pathway, Spending Review 2025, and muck-spreading rule changes
• Latest science on heatwaves, changes to ALC suitability under climate change and insights from India’s AI farming
• Key reports on carbon pricing, the future of fertiliser, the water sector and regen ag
• Ceres Research member updates – including the recording of Agronomy Club on crop/business updates, forward planning and OSR establishment, details of July’s Agronomy Club and booking details for the Ceres Research AgriStrategy Conference.
Ceres Research
Jul, 02 2025Each month, we update you on fuel prices which relate to our industry in order to help you benchmark and forecast your costs. This information is part of our endeavour to ensure we support you, our members, in the effective day-to-day running of your rural businesses.
Dr Dannielle Robb
Jul, 02 2025As fertiliser markets enter a new season, volatility driven by Middle East tensions and shifting global supply chains is reshaping expectations. Historical data shows nitrogen prices typically rise mid-season, reinforcing the case for early procurement. AI modelling suggests wheat and urea prices may climb further, while widening price ratios between feed wheat and ammonium nitrate highlight the growing importance of Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE). This article explores the trends, risks, and strategic considerations shaping fertiliser decisions for 2025.
Dr Alex Setchfield
Jul, 02 2025As growers look ahead to the next season, this article explores how to realign rotations after recent disruptions, select profitable break crops, and navigate variety choices amid evolving disease pressures. It also examines the future of SFI-supported options and offers practical strategies for successful oilseed rape establishment in the face of flea beetle risk. Grounded in current field observations and trial insights, this piece provides timely guidance for building resilient, profitable cropping plans.
Dr Alex Setchfield
Jul, 02 2025Warmer seasons and milder winters are fuelling a rise in pest pressures—particularly aphids—across UK arable fields. With the breakdown of key disease resistance genes like Yr15 and uncertainty over fungicide availability, growers face mounting challenges. This article explores the latest Rothamsted survey data, emerging Yellow Rust strains, and practical steps farmers can take to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Dr Dannielle Robb
Jun, 04 2025This month’s digest includes:
• Funding opportunities such as the Farming Technology Fund and Anglian Water training support
• Key information regarding industry news on trade deals, the dry spring and bluetongue virus
• Latest reports on SFI, CS etc uptake and open consultation on BNG
• Ceres Research upcoming events including the June date for Agronomy Club
Dr Dannielle Robb
May, 20 2025This month’s digest includes:
• On The Farm Day roadshow success!
• Ceres Group responds to the Land Use Framework consultation
• Key information regarding; policy and regulation, industry news, science and innovation and the latest reports published
• Ceres Research Events – including a reflection on our first Agronomy Club & a save the date for our Winter Conference!
Tim Isaac
Apr, 28 2025Ceres Group Respond To: UK Land Use Framework Consultation The UK Government recently consulted on a Land Use Framework for England, seeking views on how land can be used to […]
Dr Dannielle Robb
Apr, 25 2025In this month’s Digest:
– Crucial deadlines for revenue claims under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme & Environmental Stewardship, the Government’s consultation on the Land Use Framework, and Defra’s national action plan for pesticides
– Approval of a new insecticide for controlling aphids and the approval of the Lower Thames Crossing
– Strategies to increase grassland resilience to drought and new ideas for better environmental management
– AHDB Climate Change Adaptation report and the Innovation & Research Caucus report on UK Agri-tech