The balance between growing the food demand of the world population and global agricultural output has dramatically worsened during the recent decades. Plant protection in general and the protection of crops against plant diseases in particular, have an obvious role to play in meeting the growing demand for food quality and quantity. Roughly, direct yield losses caused by pathogens, animals, and weeds, are altogether responsible for losses ranging between 20 and 40 % of global agricultural productivity (Teng and Krupa 1980; Teng 1987; Oerke et al. 1994; Oerke 2006).
Crop TestingThere are many diseases, pests and other issues that can arise when growing crops. Identifying these problems is the first step to solving them. Not all conditions can be reversed and some plants may need to be destroyed, but catching the problem early can make all the difference. Pay close attention to the health and vigor of your plants and inspect them closely at the first signs of sickness.
Soil Testing
Fera has established the Soil Health Unit to improve understanding of soil management and its effects on crop health and threat control. Our work involves investigating the interactions between soil condition, crops, water and biotic stress – and the environmental factors that influence them.
Our initial assessment typically includes visual examination of your sample by our plant pathologists to assess the most probable cause and appropriate method of testing (please be aware this does not include screening for viral pathogens). In the event of more than one probable cause (e.g. bacterial and fungal) or further specific testing being required we will contact you to discuss any additional work and costs
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