Producing sugar beet for the British growers

Danisco Seed is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of sugar beet and other agricultural seeds. In the UK, it has established an enviable reputation as a leading producer of sugar beet seed.
 
And now in its 88th year, Danisco Seed remains committed to delivering high performing varieties to the British sugar beet grower. As one of Europe’s most experienced suppliers of high quality sugar beet varieties, marketed in a number of European countries under the Maribo brand, we are known for varieties that deliver maximum returns – for both British Sugar and the grower.
 
Our top performing varieties on the NIAB RECOMMENDED LIST again includes the popular 2007 bestseller Palace. Plus the adorable Pondus – now in his second year, and still a ‘must have’ choice. Two new varieties join Palace and Pondus; Topper – top for establishment, and Belize – packed full of sugar. All four have low bolting figures and high levels of establishment making them ideal for sowing early.

Growers advised to make an early start

 
With early-drilled beet giving 10% higher yields it pays to make an early start. This is the message coming out of British Sugar.
 
“It is proven that those who drill early (given suitable soil conditions) are rewarded with higher yields than those who drill later. A crop drilled well, in good conditions, on 1 March will produce 10% more yield than a similar one drilled at the end of the month.” Source British Sugar.
 
As UK growers search for the best way to continue profitable sugar beet production, there is one simple solution: go early and claim that 10% extra yield. But you need to make sure you choose a variety with low bolting figures and for even greater returns look for high levels of establishment.
 
“For early sowing, resistance to bolting is an important character and all varieties are included in special early sown bolting trials to see how they perform.” Simon Kerr, NIAB.
 
So make sure you choose your variety carefully! Click here to see some of the top-rated varieties for drilling early.