The final year of the UK Cereal and Oilseed Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) ended on an impressive note, with Lincolnshire grower Tim Lamyman reclaiming the world record for oilseed rape at 7.7 t/ha.
ADAS crop physiologist Dr Pete Berry said a warm autumn and bright, dry spring had created ideal conditions for OSR establishment and flowering, even in what was one of the driest seasons on record.
Cereals Hit by Heat and Drought
Cereal crops struggled under the same weather pattern. Warmer temperatures shortened all growth phases, and drought during flowering sharply reduced grain numbers. Each 1°C temperature rise cuts grain‑filling by around two days.
Pulse Growers Recognised for Consistency
Despite the dry season, several pulse growers achieved excellent yields—up to 6.7 t/ha for peas and over 8 t/ha for beans. YEN data continues to support improvements in nutrient timing and flowering‑date strategies.
An End to the Cereal & Oilseed YEN Era
After 13 years supporting growers across the UK and Europe, the Cereal and Oilseed YENs have now concluded. Founder Prof. Roger Sylvester‑Bradley highlighted the network’s role in helping farmers understand and close yield gaps.
2025 YEN Awards – Key Highlights
Cereal YEN – Gold: David Passmore, Oxfordshire – 14.34 t/ha
Oats – Gold: John Anderson – 10.09 t/ha
Spring Barley – Gold: Dyson Farming – 10.39 t/ha
Oilseed YEN – Gold: Tim Lamyman – 7.71 t/ha
Pea YEN – Gold: Ed King – 6.70 t/ha
Bean YEN – Gold: William Dakin – 8.15 t/ha
Innovators of the Year
Awards went to Tim Lamyman and Richard Budd for their data‑driven approach to improving crop performance.
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