New Xbeet enrich 400 delivers 2% yield uplift

Across the country, our scientists work with growers to put potential new products through their paces.  These on-farm, in-field trials are critical and ensure that the performance seen in controlled environments is replicated in real world conditions.

Most recently, it has been Xbeet enrich 400 that has been under intense scrutiny. 

“We’ve hosted demonstration trials at Pond Farm for at least 5 years and it’s great to see the improvements made with each generation of the enrich product,” explains Sentry Farm Manager, Alastair Gray.

Alastair manages over 3,000 hectares across eight farms in North Norfolk.  With a quota of 25,000 tonnes, between 350 and 400 hectares are dedicated to sugar beet production each year. 

“After chitting, the last thing beet wants to do is stop,” says Alastair.  “That initial momentum is essential and gives crops their yield potential.”

Importance of a good seed treatment

Alastair describes Xbeet enrich as his ‘go-to’ seed treatment, adding: “It has always done a good job, with higher germination and seedling growth than others we’ve looked at.” 

Xbeet enrich 400 is our most advanced sugar beet seed treatment yet. It’s been developed specifically for UK farmers and, in comparison with Xbeet enrich 300, is scientifically proven both in trials and on-farm to increase yields by 2%.

“In addition to the primer, nutrients and biostimulants in Xbeet enrich 300, this latest formulation contains Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR),” explains Germain’s lead scientist, Jordan Long. 

PGPRs are best known for their abilities to colonise plant root systems and effectively extend their reach.

“As part of their own lifecycles, these beneficial microbes break down soil nutrients like phosphorus, potassium and key micronutrients that would otherwise be inaccessible to plants. Through their symbiotic relationships, PGPRs exchange these essential nutrients and water for carbon-rich compounds produced by the plant’s root system. 

“It is these longer-term benefits that further enhance plant growth and accelerate canopy development to produce stronger, more resilient crops,” he says.

Will Hitchcock, a long-term user of Xbeet enrich, who’s responsible for a significant beet acreage across Suffolk, recently used our online calculator to compare the performance of Xbeet enrich 300 and 400, as well as seed treatments offered by other manufacturers.

“I was amazed by the yield benefit of the 400. It’s quite exciting going forwards and is an example of the innovations that could help us continue to drive yield growth,” he says. 

Will’s family run business, Hitchcock Farms, has over 200ha of beet on the home farm but drills in excess of 810ha and lifts more than 1,200ha each year. 

“I know there is currently a huge amount of uncertainty about the price of beet, but as a grower there is a lot we can do to de-risk the crop, and using the best available seed treatment is a good example. 

“In this current climate you need those marginal gains to ensure your competitive advantage,” he says.  

Xbeet Enrich 400

Learn more about Xbeet Enrich 400 here…