Tramlines

• Beyond the Bottom Line: Strategies for Resilient Farming

  Today we’re talking about the challenges facing farm businesses after two very difficult years of crop establishment and a dry summer that has left many under significant financial pressure. That’s the picture here in the UK, but globally we’re seeing record harvests - and it’s not just arable enterprises under strain. Livestock producers have been severely affected too. So, what can farmers do to navigate this period and build resilience? To explore that question, we're joined by Lucy Braithwaite-Exley Scotland Origination Manager with Bunge, and Paul Pickford, Farm Business Consultant. This episode covers:Create a Clear Financial Plan Build a realistic budget and gross margin analysis to guide decisions and secure financial support. This helps manage cash flow and ensures you're prepared for seasonal input costs.Engage Early with Local Buyers and Merchants Identify local market demand to reduce haulage costs and improve profitability. Regularly speak with merchants and traders to align crop choices with buyer needs.Diversify Marketing Strategies Use tools like grain pools to manage price volatility and ensure movement and payment for a portion of your crop. This reduces risk and improves financial predictability.Adapt Cropping Based on Market Signals Monitor shifts in demand (e.g. reduced distilling sector needs in Scotland) and adjust crop rotations accordingly - consider alternatives like oats, rye, or oilseed rape where viable.Leverage Sustainable Practices for Financial Gain Implement strategies like reduced tillage, cover cropping, and efficient nutrition to unlock environmental and financial benefits. Explore pilot projects and sustainability schemes that offer rewards.*Please note: This podcast was recorded on 13th October 2025, and market prices may have changed since then. 

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• Feeding the Roots: Phosphorus for Profitable Crops

  In this episode, we discuss phosphorus as a key nutrient across a range of crops, from cereals and potatoes to vegetables, and review recent research and its impact on financial margins. We’ll also cover how farmers and growers can get involved and learn more. Joining us are Agrii’s Tom Land, Fertiliser Technical Manager, and Don Pendergrast, Technical Manager for Specialty Crops. Episode overview:Phosphorus is vital for crop establishment and root development: It supports energy transfer, growth, and fertility in cereals, potatoes, and vegetables. Declining phosphorus levels in grain analysis suggest a need to reassess application strategies.Precision application is key for specialty crops like potatoes: Targeting phosphorus placement near the root zone improves uptake and tuber development. Technologies like microgranules, liquid formulations, and coated fertilizers are being trialled.New R&D focuses on improving phosphorus efficiency: Agrii is testing products like Release in both field and glasshouse trials to enhance root mass and nutrient uptake, especially in soils with challenging pH levels.Return on investment matters more than maximum yield: Trials show that medium-input strategies often outperform high-input ones in profitability. Early investment in nutrition - especially at seedbed stage - is crucial for root crops.Farmers can stay informed via grain testing and Agrii events: Grain tests (approx. £45) offer valuable feedback on nutrient uptake. Agrii’s website, social media, and events like the Potato Partnership provide ongoing insights and trial results.Book your spot at The Potato Partnership event and learn about this season's trials results at your nearest location. Visit thepotatopartnership.co.uk/events

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• TELUS x Agrii: The Digital Backbone of Modern Farming

  Today we ask, can a farmer have too much data? As on-farm challenges grow, how can data become vital to farm businesses and what new tools are available? To help us explore these questions, we are joined by Ben Hatton from TELUS, and Sam Fordham from RHIZA Digital.Data Overload or Opportunity?The episode explores whether farmers can have too much data and how to make it meaningful for decision-making.TELUS Partnership for Smarter FarmingAgrii and TELUS are working together to deliver cloud-based crop management tools that streamline data sharing and reduce manual entry.Evolving Data DemandsFarmers face growing pressure to provide detailed crop data for traceability, carbon footprint, and biodiversity - especially in broadacre crops.AI, Drones & AutomationEmerging technologies like Skippy Scout drones and AI are enabling real-time data collection and smarter farm operations.Top Tips for GrowersExperts advise mapping out what “good” looks like for your farm, then using data and tech to support that vision - starting with simple conversations and trusted tools.Find out more at telus.com/CropManagement or email [email protected] to discuss your farm’s needs.Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons. 

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• Future-Proofing Forage Against Weather Extremes

  This episode focuses on the challenges farmers are facing with forage this year. After a wet winter and a dry summer, concerns are growing around forage shortages for livestock. We are joined by Ben Lowe, Agrii’s National Forage Product Manager, and Amy Hardwick, Sustainability and Environmental Services Manager, to discuss the current situation, the pressures on arable and livestock systems, and the practical steps farmers can take now to protect forage supplies and build longer-term resilience. After a wet winter and dry summer, forage shortages are a real concern for livestock farmers.Arable yields are mixed and shifting subsidy schemes add financial pressure.New grass reseeds and diverse mixtures, including clovers, help crops cope with drought.Forage rye and Italian ryegrass are strong options to fill the gap after maize harvest.Farmers are urged to take action now, not wait and hope conditions improve.Download our up-to-date Agrii Maize Brochure agrii.co.uk/our-services/tools-resources/documents/ packed with agronomy insight, variety info and tailored recommendations Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons. 

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• Live on Farm: The Ripening Story of British Blackcurrants in a Changing Climate

  Today we’re recording live from West End Farm in Somerset, home to RAJ Morris and their recent blackcurrant harvest. We’re here in the field with Harriet Prosser, agronomist for Ribena, and Matt Greep, fruit and horticultural agronomist with Agrii. Together, we’ll be exploring the unique challenges of growing blackcurrants – from changing weather patterns to the evolving role of agronomy – and hearing how growers are adapting to keep this iconic crop thriving.Recorded live during harvest – walk the rows at West End Farm and see how the crop is managed in real time.From wartime vitamin C to modern-day market demand – uncover the roots of British blackcurrant production.Managing pests, drought, and unpredictable seasons – hear how agronomists are adapting and supporting growers.Thinking of planting? Learn how variety choice, site selection, and establishment can future-proof your crop.Soil health, chill hours, and yield balance – the key agronomic insights shared by those in the field.Tony Smith is the host of Tramlines. Based in the South West and from a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) in Agriculture. He spent many years working in the farming industry before moving into a career as a presenter. Tony has hosted Tramlines for the past five seasons. 

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