Tramlines

Agrii

Tramlines is the only farming podcast that delivers advice to growers on how to improve environmental performance and maximise farm profitability. By tuning into Tramlines, you will benefit from listening to episodes that feature experts and experienced farmers, who share valuable information on best practices, new techniques, and the latest research in agriculture. Join the experts fortnightly as they address common problems and solutions and stay up-to-date with the latest developments. With CPD points up for grabs on certain episodes, topics range from digital innovations to soil health and the discussions are supported by Agrii's extensive trials programme and environmental work.

Featuring: Farmer Tom, John Miles, Paul Pickford, Prof Andrew Neil, Ruth Mann, Tom Land, Kathryn Styan, Andrew Ward MBE and Simon Weaving. And more…

If you enjoyed listening to Tramlines, please leave a review in the app. Got a podcast idea or want to get involved? Email us on info@agrii.co.uk. Listen on:
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24 episodes
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Avg 21 min
English

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S6 · E10
Tuesday · 20 min
The Nitrogen Question: What Is Your Soil Really Telling You?
In this episode of Tramlines, host Tony Smith is joined by Jonathan Trotter and Lucy Cottingham from Agrii's Digital Technology Farms programme to tackle a long-debated question in precision farming: should growers feed the strongest parts of a crop or support the weaker areas? Drawing on field-scale trials from Scotland and Lincolnshire, they explore how soil data, yield mapping, satellite imagery and variable-rate nitrogen applications are helping farmers make more informed decisions. The discussion reveals that understanding field variability may be far more important than following any single nitrogen strategy. CPD points: Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode, date of birth and the podcast title. Summary: Agrii's Innovations team has evaluated around 70 agricultural technologies over four years, with only a small number proving valuable enough to progress into practical farm testing. The Digital Technology Farms network uses growers’ farms across the UK to test technologies in field-scale farming conditions, helping assess both agronomic performance and economic return. Trials at Brotherton Farms compared different variable-rate nitrogen strategies and found that understanding soil variability, field history and yield potential is more important than simply choosing to "feed the good" or "feed the bad." By combining yield maps, soil zoning, satellite imagery and drone data, the team identified significant differences in field performance, with gross margin variations of around £260/ha between nitrogen strategies. The strongest message for growers is that precision nitrogen management should be driven by a thorough understanding of soils and field variability, enabling the right strategy to be applied in the right area at the right time.
S6 · E9
October 20 · 20 min
Beyond the Farm Gate: New Income Streams for Farming Businesses
With farm incomes under increasing pressure, many businesses are looking beyond traditional agriculture to build resilience and secure their future. In this episode of Tramlines, host Tony Smith explores farm diversification with Guy Shelby of Shelby Farm in East Yorkshire and Billy Hosdell, Agrii Agronomist. From padel courts and equestrian facilities to alternative crops like flax, they discuss how farmers can create new income streams while staying true to their passion for farming. Along the way, they share practical advice on business planning, working with landlords, and identifying opportunities that fit individual farm businesses. Diversification is becoming essential for many farm businesses as traditional farming margins come under pressure, helping to support profitability and spread risk Strong relationships with landlords can unlock opportunities, with Guy highlighting how collaboration and presenting well-researched business cases helped secure support from the Crown Estate Successful diversification requires thorough planning, including professional advice, detailed budgets, cashflow forecasts, and marketing to ensure projects are commercially viable Innovation can extend to cropping choices, with the discussion exploring flax production in Yorkshire as a potential new enterprise, driven by changing climate conditions and emerging market opportunities
S6 · E8
September 29 · 20 min
Rebuilding Soil: Protecting Your Farm's Most Valuable Asset
Soil is the foundation of every farming business, but are we giving it the attention it deserves? In this episode of Tramlines, host Tony Smith is joined by Agrii's Tom Perrott and Andrew Sincock from Agro-Vital to explore why soil should be considered a farm's most valuable asset. Together they discuss soil health, organic matter, practical ways to assess soil condition, and how small management changes can deliver long-term improvements in resilience, productivity, and profitability. Podcast summary: Soil is a farm's greatest asset, underpinning over 95% of food production and influencing the long-term success of every farming enterprise. Organic matter is critical to soil health, improving structure, nutrient retention, biological activity, and long-term productivity. Historic Rothamsted trials show benefits can last for generations. Start with the basics by assessing soil structure, drainage, porosity, pH, earthworm numbers, and biological activity before investing in solutions. Every farm is different, so soil improvement strategies should be tailored to the farm's individual circumstances, resources, and business objectives. Incremental improvements deliver lasting results. Farmers should set achievable goals, monitor progress, and focus on building resilience through better soil management and reduced reliance on external inputs.
S6 · E7
September 8 · 20 min
Agrii and TELUS: Building the Future of Farm Management
In this episode of Tramlines, host Tony Smith is joined by Ben Hatton from TELUS and Agrii's Sam Fordham to explore the evolving role of farm management software. From compliance and record keeping to data integration, sustainability reporting and AI-ready decision making, they discuss how modern digital platforms are helping growers spend less time in the office and more time making informed decisions in the field. With agriculture facing increasing cost pressures, legislative change and rapid technological advancement, discover why clean, connected data is becoming one of the most valuable assets on the farm. Farm management software goes beyond compliance, helping farmers improve sustainability, profitability and business performance. Agriculture is moving from data collection to data action, using connected technology to support real-time decisions. Cloud-based platforms are driving adoption through mobile access, easier sharing and improved user experience. Quality data underpins future technologies, from AI and sensors to variable rate applications and sustainability reporting. TELUS and Agrii are helping future-proof farm businesses with integrated tools, expert support and simple migration pathways. For more information visit Crop management software | TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods GB
S6 · E6
August 18 · 20 min
September vs October Drilling: Balancing Risk and Reward
In this episode of Tramlines, inspired by a conversation with our very own customer James Peck from PX Farms, we are joined by Agrii agronomist and technical advisor Craig Simpson to explore one of the most debated topics in arable farming: when is the right time to start drilling winter crops? With an early harvest tempting growers into the field, Craig examines the yield benefits of early September drilling alongside the increased risks from grass weeds, BYDV and disease pressure. Together, they discuss how farmers can balance risk and reward to maximise crop performance in an increasingly unpredictable climate. Key Takeaways: Early drilling can boost yield potential through stronger establishment, greater tiller numbers and improved rooting, helping crops cope with dry spring conditions. Delaying drilling can significantly reduce grass weed pressures such as blackgrass and sterile brome, improving long-term weed control. September-drilled crops face higher BYDV risk, with warmer conditions and increased aphid activity potentially adding further pressure this season. Earlier drilling can increase disease risk, particularly septoria, as denser canopies allow disease to build more rapidly during wet seasons. The best approach is a planned, field-by-field strategy, considering weed burden, variety selection, disease resistance and local conditions before drilling begins. October drilling? Success starts with choosing the right seed for the right timing. Our full seed portfolio can be found in our Grower's Autumn Guide 2026. Click the link in the bio or click here. https://www.agrii.co.uk/our-services/tools-resources/documents/
S6 · E5
July 28 · 30 min
Nutrient Use & Compliance: Making Every Nutrient Count with the Environment Agency
In this episode of Tramlines, we are joined by William Crookshank from the Environment Agency and Tom Land, Agrii's National Fertiliser Product Manager, to discuss nutrient use, compliance, and why effective nutrient management is essential for both environmental protection and farm profitability. The conversation explores nutrient planning, the management of organic manures, regulatory requirements, and practical steps farmers can take to improve nutrient efficiency while reducing pollution risk. Nutrient management plans are essential: Good nutrient management starts with a robust, regularly reviewed nutrient plan based on current soil analysis, helping farmers optimise inputs, improve efficiency, and meet regulatory requirements. Poor nutrient management remains a challenge: The Environment Agency reports that around a third of farms visited lack a nutrient management plan, and a similar proportion do not have adequate soil sampling, increasing the risk of nutrient loss and non-compliance. Organic manures should be treated as valuable resources, not waste: Testing and understanding the nutrient content of manures, slurries, and digestates allows farmers to maximise their value while avoiding excessive applications of nutrients such as phosphorus. Timing and application matter: Applying organic nutrients when crops can actively use them reduces losses to air and water, improves nutrient use efficiency, and can deliver significant financial savings through reduced fertiliser purchases. Technology and advice can improve outcomes: Soil testing, nutrient planning software, manure analysis, precision application equipment, and support from FACTS-qualified advisers can help farmers balance productivity, profitability, compliance, and environmental stewardship. CPD points: Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode, date of birth and the podcast title.
S6 · E4
July 7 · 20 min
From Black-grass to Better Margins: The Sparsholt Story
In this episode of Tramlines, our host Tony Smith sits down with the team behind Sparsholt Manor Farm to explore their ongoing journey towards sustainable arable farming. Faced with severe black-grass pressure and rising input costs, farm manager Piers Cowling and Agrii experts Iain Richards and Ian Davy share how a long-term, integrated approach - combining direct drilling, soil health improvements, and smarter crop management - is transforming both productivity and profitability. Integrated black-grass control is essential High resistance levels mean success relies on a full system approach - delayed drilling, consistent cultivations, precise seed placement, and stacked residual chemistry. Direct drilling is driving efficiency gains Moving from multi-pass cultivations to predominantly direct drilling has reduced fuel use dramatically (from ~45L/ha to under 10L/ha) while maintaining crop performance. Soil health improvements are delivering real results Organic matter has increased from under 4% to nearly 7%, improving nutrient cycling, water retention, and enabling reduced fertiliser inputs. Input reduction is both economic and environmental Lower nitrogen, fewer pesticides, and reduced fungicide use are cutting costs while supporting more resilient crops and beneficial ecosystems. Variety choice and system thinking are critical Selecting varieties for vigour and disease resistance - rather than maximum yield alone - helps optimise performance in later drilling windows and challenging conditions. To find out more on how Agrii can support your farm business, visit agrii.co.uk/sustainable-farming
S6 · E3
June 16 · 26 min
The Smart Connected Farm: Turning Data into Decisions at Cereals 2026
You've got the data, so what? Today we’re recording live from Cereals 2026 at Diddly Squat Farm. Agrii has just unveiled its vision for the Smart Connected Farm - a system designed to help farmers harness data, technology, and expert insight to improve decision-making and drive performance. In this episode, Rachel Watling National Marketing Manager at Agrii takes you on a tour of the concept, exploring how people, research, seed, nutrition, and digital tools all connect to create a more profitable and resilient farming business. Stations: Agronomy - Kathryn Styan R&D - Ruth Mann & Jonathan Trotter Seed - John Miles & Rob Stuart Nutrition - Tom Land Digital - Ben Foster & Jonny Kerley Podcast summary: The Smart Connected Farm is a system designed to help farmers improve profitability, and navigate the digital tools available - from sensors to satellite imagery People remain central: agronomists use data and AI to enhance (not replace) expert, on-the-ground decision-making. Significant R&D investment (450+ trials annually) enables Agrii to reduce risk and provide proven, field-scale insights to growers. A joined-up approach across seed, nutrition, and agronomy allows more precise, early-stage decision-making to improve crop performance. Digital platforms like Contour bring complex data together into simple, actionable insights to drive profitability and compliance. Download insight report: www.agrii.co.uk/insights/smart-connected-farms/
S6 · E4
June 9 · 20 min
Oilseed Rape: Is It Back on the Agenda for UK Growers?
Oilseed rape is showing signs of a comeback, with planted area rising significantly last autumn and renewed confidence building across the industry. But with ongoing challenges and changing conditions, is it really back as a profitable option for UK farms? In this episode, we’re joined by Agrii’s oilseed rape specialists Ian Davey and Will Sanderson. to explore the latest insights on varieties, establishment, and risk management - you decide whether OSR has a place in your rotation this autumn. Confidence is returning: improved establishment, reduced pest pressure, and stronger prices are driving renewed interest in OSR. Profitability goes beyond the crop: OSR remains a valuable break crop, boosting the performance of following cereals. Establishment is everything: success hinges on moisture, timing, and strong early growth in the first 4–6 weeks. Success comes from marginal gains: integrated strategies like Agrii’s eight-point plan help manage risk layer by layer. Variety choice is about risk, not just yield: traits like vigour, disease resilience, and stem health are critical for consistent performance.
S6 · E1
May 26 · 20 min
Growing Better Berries: Integrated Pest Management in Action
In this episode of Tramlines, we head to Emery Soft Fruits Ltd in Hampshire to explore how growers are producing high-quality strawberries and raspberries in an increasingly challenging environment. As reliance on synthetic chemistry declines, integrated pest management (IPM) is taking centre stage. Joined by expert Matt Greep, Horticultural Agronomist at Agrii and Simon Beasley UK Sales Manager, at Bioline, we uncover how biological controls, pollinators and proactive strategies are helping growers stay ahead of pests, improve sustainability, and deliver consistent, premium fruit to UK consumers. IPM is now central to modern soft fruit production Consistent quality and flavour drive every decision Proactive monitoring keeps pest pressure under control Pollinators improve fruit shape, yield and uniformity Building beneficial insect populations lowers costs long term
S6 · E2
May 19 · 20 min
Making Farm Machinery Pay: How Data, Connectivity and Smarter Investment Are Shaping Modern Farming
From rising machinery costs to variable rate technology and connected farm platforms, this episode of Tramlines explores how growers can improve machinery performance, reduce waste, and make more informed investment decisions. In this episode of Tramlines, host Tony Smith is joined by farm business consultant Paul Pickford, Jonny Kerley from Origin Digital, and Ben Foster from RHIZA to discuss one of the biggest financial pressures facing UK farming businesses: machinery investment. With farms in England spending £2.3 billion on machinery in 2023/24, according to DEFRA, the discussion focuses on how growers can improve returns from machinery through better data, improved connectivity, more efficient operations, and a clearer understanding of true operating costs. Podcast Summary: Why UK farm machinery investment has slowed despite increasing operational pressures The true cost of machinery ownership and why many businesses still underestimate it How telematics and connected platforms are improving machinery efficiency on farm Why idle time and machine utilisation matter more than ever in tight-margin farming The growing role of data and connectivity in future machinery purchasing decisions
S5 · E21
April 28 · 20 min
Climate Resilience: Planning for drought, flooding and everything between
Farming conditions in the UK are becoming more variable. While there may be opportunities from improved growing conditions in some seasons, these are increasingly offset by extremes such as drought, flooding and unpredictable weather patterns. In this Tramlines podcast episode, we explore what resilience means in practice and how farm businesses can adapt. The discussion brings together climate science and practical agronomy to help inform decision-making on farm. Leading the discussion is Dr Mike Rivington of the James Hutton Institute and Andrew Richards, Senior Agronomist at Agrii. Podcast Summary: What future climate conditions could look like for UK farming, and why variability matters more than averages The practical impact of drought, flooding and seasonal extremes on crop performance How soil structure and organic matter underpin water management and resilience Where investment decisions, such as drainage, can influence yield and long-term returns How to approach crop and variety choice in less predictable conditions The role of modelling and data in supporting better on-farm decisions Why resilience is as much about business and mindset as it is about agronomy
S5 · E20
April 7 · 20 min
Subsidy Shake-Up - Making Sense of SFI, SFS and Scottish Rules
Navigating the complexity of environmental schemes across the UK demands careful consideration to identify the most suitable options for each individual farm. To guide us through these challenges, we’re joined by Agrii’s Amy Watkins, Sustainability and Environmental Services Manager, Liam Wink, Grass and Forage Specialist and Jenny Douglas, an independent advisor on Scottish subsidies. Podcast Summary: England, Scotland and Wales are all moving away from BPS at different speeds, making environmental schemes increasingly vital for farm income. Scotland maintains full BPS for now but with tighter compliance rules, particularly around EFAs, margins and seed mix requirements. England’s SFI reopens this year with fewer actions, one agreement per farm and a £100k annual cap, so early preparation is essential. Wales’ new Sustainable Farming Scheme is replacing a significant BPS reduction, with many upland farms choosing it for better income fit. Additional funding options remain available across the UK—including grants and carbon‑credit opportunities—although competitiveness and long‑term commitments vary. You can find details of your local Agrii agronomist and environmental specialist at agrii.co.uk/contact.
S5 · E19
March 10 · 20 min
Spring Decisions: Timing, Nutrition, Results
Today we’re tackling spring crop decisions. How do you nail the timing, get nutrition spot on, and boost your results? To answer that, we’ve got Ben Foster from RHIZA and Gavin Stewart, Fertiliser Product Manager for Scotland, and George Proctor, Contracting Operations Manager at Agrii. Summary: Nitrogen needs to be used more efficiently as prices rise and CBAM fertiliser tax comes in. Many farms only achieve around 60% nitrogen use efficiency, but Agrii trials show variable‑rate, evidence‑based applications can lift this to 70–75%. Liquid fertiliser offers accuracy and quicker uptake, especially in dry springs. Adding inhibitors like Liqui‑Safe can increase nitrogen use efficiency by ~15% and delivered a 4% yield uplift across 42 winter wheat trials. Precision starts with understanding variability, not guessing it. Farmers should use Contour satellite imagery, drones, and N‑sensors to judge crop demand, identify differences in biomass, and decide whether to feed weaker or stronger areas. Contract sprayers give farmers access to variable‑rate technology they may not have on their own kit. Liquid systems and modern sprayers allow accurate, low‑pressure applications that reduce crop damage and support timely operations in narrow weather windows. Timing and conditions matter as much as rate. Using hyper‑local weather data in Contour helps farmers and contractors judge field conditions, hit application windows, and make sure nitrogen is applied when the crop can use it effectively.
S5 · E18
March 3 · 20 min
Are Bats the Most Underrated Pest Control on Farm?
Today we’re talking moths and asking a bold question: could bats be the game‑changing IPM tool that protects harvestable yield and boosts the bottom line for this Kent dessert‑apple farm? Richard and Fraiya Chandler of Chandler & Dunn, together with Agrii agronomist Neil Obbard, have been putting this idea to the test. Summary: Bats as natural pest control: The farm is exploring whether boosting bat populations can significantly reduce key moth pests in apple orchards, lowering reliance on insecticides and cutting production costs. High economic impact of moth damage: Moth species like codling moth and tortrix can cause major crop losses, and current chemical control costs the farm £500–£600 per hectare. Scientific evidence backs the idea: A 2022 study shows that a single brown long‑eared bat can reduce crop loss by 81–83% per hectare - a remarkable potential impact. Habitat improvement is key: Enhancing hedgerows, tree cover, and installing appropriate bat boxes can help attract and support different bat species, boosting their presence in orchards. Wider farming benefits: Using bats aligns with sustainable IPM, protects biodiversity, and may translate to benefits across other crops like plums, cherries, and blueberries.
S5 · E17
February 10 · 20 min
Get Your Crops Right This Spring – Nutrition, Tech and Protection Tips
Crop resilience is a major talking point, but what does it really mean for this spring and the season ahead? How can farmers set crops up to deliver reliable, consistent results in a challenging growing year? In this episode, we are joined by Agrii’s John Miles, Seed Technical Manager, Tom Land, National Fertiliser Manager, Jonathan Trotter, Technical Trials Manager, and Jody Littleford, Technical Manager at Combinable Crop Trials. Together, they discuss how varieties, nutrition, Biosolutions and fungicides, and the latest technology can be brought together to build stronger, more resilient crops from the outset. Summary: Disease pressure is high, with new yellow rust races overcoming resistance - growers must stay proactive with protectant fungicide strategies. Nutrition must be precise, using SMN tests and biomass assessments to avoid costly nitrogen mis‑applications. Tech tools like satellite imagery and variable‑rate nitrogen can improve decision‑making and input efficiency. Biostimulants, including endophytes and peptide elicitors, can strengthen plant health and bolster resilience but complement, don’t replace, core agronomy. Overall resilience comes from measuring, monitoring, and staying ahead, combining nutrition, chemistry, tech, and field walking. Download Agrii's latest insight report beyond the bottom line, tackling rising costs with smarter margins. Visit agrii.co.uk or view here.
S5 · E16
February 10 · 20 min
Maize Under Pressure – Building Resilience into the System
Growing last year’s forage proved challenging, with weather conditions hitting many crops. Maize, in particular, remains highly sensitive to in‑season pressures - yet it continues to offer major advantages when managed well. So what benefits can maize deliver, and how can growers set themselves up for success in 2026? To explore these questions, we're joined by two experts: Ben Lowe, Agrii’s National Forage Manager, and Tom Turner, Regional Sales Manager for KWS. Podcast summary: 2025 growing season was highly variable, with some regions achieving excellent maize yields while others suffered severe drought and extremely poor performance. Both forage and AD growers faced big inconsistencies. Resilience and early maturity are key themes for 2026. Experts emphasise strong variety selection, moving to earlier‑maturing genetics, and balancing yield with forage quality to buffer against unpredictable weather. Seed rate decisions depend on site conditions — sheltered sites can push 100k–110k seeds/ha, exposed or drought‑prone areas benefit from reduced rates to improve stem strength, moisture availability, and harvest timing. Modern genetics reduce the need for plastic film in marginal areas. Advances mean ultra‑early varieties can now establish reliably even in cooler or challenging regions without film. Top tips from the experts: choose the right variety for your site, prioritise quality as much as yield, ensure good site selection and maturity matching, and avoid reverting to later varieties despite the temptation after drier years. View the 2026 maize guide here.
S5 · E15
January 11 · 20 min
Can Carbon Actually Make you Money?
Considering the unpredictable nature of farm margins, what straightforward opportunities are available for farmers to earn extra income through carbon initiatives? Today, our experts shed light on this. Agrii’s Amy Hardwick, Sustainability and Environmental Manager, Agrii’s Neil Harper, Agronomist and Arable Technical Manager, and Alan Clifton-Holt, Farms Director at AA Clifton Ltd, who farms on Romney Marsh in Kent. If you would like to start exploring the initiatives available, click here to see what it could mean for your farm.
S5 · E14
Dec 9, 2025 · 20 min
Accidental Counsellors and the Future of Farm Wellbeing
Today we explore the Agri Wellbeing Alliance, launched at LAMMA in January to strengthen mental health and wellbeing across agriculture. A recent study led by Professor David Rose at Harper Adams University for the alliance highlights the urgent need to widen the safety net of support for farming communities, including better help for those who find themselves acting as accidental counsellors. Joining us today are Petra Martin from Agrii, Professor David Rose from Harper Adams University, and Sam Downey from Mates in Mind. Agrii can help future-proof your farm by growing a diverse range of crops together with comprehensive advice on environmental and sustainable business opportunities. For more information, visit www.agrii.co.uk/sustainability
S5 · E13
Nov 18, 2025 · 30 min
Autumn Update: Building Crop Resilience to Protect Yield
Today we are asking how can we build better crop resilience and rooting in forward crops to overcome the changes in variety, susceptibility, and changing weather patterns. To help us with those key questions, we have Agrii's Tim Horton, technical Manager for combinable crops, and Jodie Littleford, technical Manager for combinable crop trials. Summary: Building Resilience: Strong root systems critical for nutrient and water uptake. Use of manganese seed treatments and micronutrients (manganese, zinc). Biostimulants like Inoculate (peptide-based elicitor) shown to boost crop health and yield. Management Tips: Monitor crops closely; attention to detail is vital. Early fungicide treatments for yellow rust; flexible, non-dogmatic programs. Combine chemistry with nutritional and biostimulant support. CPD points: Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode, date of birth and the podcast title.

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