STR Pace ought to be managed in the same way as other wheat when drilled autumn or spring. Trials have been undertaken looking at sowing rates and as yet there is no firm evidence that rates need adjusting beyond standard amendments relative to sowing date.

Fertiliser applications likewise are no different. STR Pace is listed in AHDB RL spring wheat tables as 80cms in height, which is significantly shorter than many of the newer varieties of winter wheat currently in the market. Allowing for earlier drilling height differences STR Pace autumn drilled has shown lower lodging values than KWS Extase. Growers are recommended to adjust fertiliser applications relative to soil fertility, previous cropping, sowing date and general crop establishment with appropriate PGR.

Regarding fungicides, where autumn-drilled growers will need to protect against yellow rust. STR Pace has good resistance to septoria tritici, brown rust and mildew. Where grown for milling the variety’s early maturity and high specific weight will benefit grain quality but ear blight risk is ever present and should be managed appropriately.

Delaying drilling is the cheapest and most effective means of reducing grassweed populations. STR Pace and Sprinter Wheat are perfectly suited to help growers establish a successful wheat crop when black grass management practices are employed.

STR Pace has wide leaves, but it is its rapid leaf growth during establishment which will smother broad leaved weeds and rapid spring growth and taller straw that helps to out-compete black grass later in the season.

Enables continued drilling of hard/milling wheat to be stored with other wheat. No need to sell at harvest at compromised prices due to lack of species segregation in store.

Avoids spring barley alternative at reduced feed value and problematic subsequent barley volunteers. Early harvest may offer new opportunities and improved price with July movement.