Research shows that native plantings on farms do more than support biodiversity, they can also boost crop yields. In this episode of Cut the Crop, Plant and Food Research scientist Brad Howlett and retired Mid-Canterbury arable farmer John Evans discuss the role native plants play in supporting pollinating insects.

Research shows that native plantings on farms do more than support biodiversity, they can also boost crop yields. In this episode of Cut the Crop, Plant and Food Research scientist Brad Howlett and retired Mid-Canterbury arable farmer John Evans discuss the role native plants play in supporting pollinating insects.

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Cut the Crop!

Native plantings boost crop yields

An unprecedented sharp rise in aphid numbers in cereals in late October has FAR staff pondering whether this led to yield losses due to YDV infection this harvest. In this episode of Cut the Crop, FAR senior field officer Ben Harvey looks back at an unusual season.

An unprecedented sharp rise in aphid numbers in cereals in late October has FAR staff pondering whether this led to yield losses due to YDV infection this harvest. In this episode of Cut the Crop, FAR senior field officer Ben Harvey looks back at an unusual season.

Late-season aphid rise poses questions

A new Growers to Bakers programme has been initiated by FAR to better match grain quality with the requirements of millers and bakers. In this episode of Cut the Crop, FAR research lead Jo Drummond and NZ Flour Millers’ Association director Phil Jackson of Mauri Mills say that protein numbers aren’t everything when it comes to flour quality.

A new Growers to Bakers programme has been initiated by FAR to better match grain quality with the requirements of millers and bakers. In this episode of Cut the Crop, FAR research lead Jo Drummond and NZ Flour Millers&rsquo; Association director Phil Jackson of Mauri Mills say that protein numbers aren&rsquo;t everything when it comes to flour quality.

Bridging the gap between growers, millers and bakers

FAR’s Technology Manager Chris Smith surveyed growers on their 2025 harvest losses in conjunction with the combine set-up workshops. In this episode of Cut the Crop, he says this showed that growers who measure with drop trays, whether commercial or improvised, record half the crop losses of those that don’t.

FAR&rsquo;s Technology Manager Chris Smith surveyed growers on their 2025 harvest losses in conjunction with the combine set-up workshops. In this episode of Cut the Crop, he says this showed that growers who measure with drop trays, whether commercial or improvised, record half the crop losses of those that don&rsquo;t.

Native plantings boost crop yields

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