UK: PGRO warns of SFI impact on pulse crops

The Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) has raised concerns about the impact of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) on pulse crop rotations, warning that certain SFI practices could inadvertently promote soil-borne diseases by encouraging legumes to be left in the ground for too long. A report by Dr Becky Howard has been highlighted by PGRO, which outlines these potential negative consequences. The organization is advising growers to consider this report carefully before selecting an SFI option, as some of these options may disrupt normal crop rotations by promoting long-term or frequent short-term legume cropping, thereby increasing disease and pest risks. PGRO's CEO, Roger Vickers, stresses the importance of understanding these impacts, especially in light of the limited crop protection products available for pulses and the exclusion of beans from the EAMU system. Additionally, PGRO is conducting a survey to understand growers' intentions regarding pulse cultivation under the SFI scheme.