August and September are the main months for preparing fields and sowing winter oilseed rape and winter cereals. The conditions plants receive at the beginning of their growth influence root development, autumn nutrition and preparation for winter.
Trichoderma in winter crops can support soil biological activity, root growth and the use of organic matter remaining after the previous crop. This is particularly important on weakened fields, in short crop rotations and on land where straw has been removed.
Why Is Autumn Root Development Important?
Winter crops should enter dormancy with a well-developed root system. Roots are responsible for water and nutrient uptake and help plants cope with cold periods and temporary water shortages.
Poorly rooted plants may be more vulnerable to:
- winter damage,
- temporary water shortages,
- limited nutrient uptake,
- slower recovery in spring,
- uneven crop development.
For this reason, spring crop condition begins with field preparation and autumn growth.
What Happens When Straw Is Removed?
Straw is a source of organic matter that affects soil structure, water retention and microbial activity. Regular straw removal can gradually reduce the amount of organic carbon returned to the soil.
This does not mean that winter crops must perform poorly on such fields. However, greater attention should be paid to soil biological activity, root development and the management of the remaining crop residues.
Microbiological support can be one element of preparing the field for the next crop.
How Does Trichoderma Work?
Fungi from the genus Trichoderma naturally occur in the soil environment. They colonise the root zone, participate in organic matter transformation and compete with other microorganisms for space and nutrients.
Depending on the strain, they can support:
- crop residue decomposition,
- soil microbial activity,
- root system development,
- availability of selected nutrients,
- biological balance in the rhizosphere,
- plant tolerance to adverse conditions.
They do not replace proper crop rotation, fertilisation or plant protection, but they can be a valuable part of soil and crop management.
VitaFer TrichoPRO Before Sowing and During Autumn
VitaFer TrichoPRO is a microbiological product containing three strains of beneficial fungi:
- Trichoderma reesei,
- Trichoderma viride,
- Trichoderma asperellum.
The total concentration is 2 × 10⁸ CFU/g, while the recommended application rate is 0.3 kg/ha.
The combination of strains with different properties makes it possible to support several processes in the soil and root zone. The product can be used as part of biological field preparation and autumn crop management.
Crop Residue Decomposition Before Sowing Winter Crops
Undecomposed residues can make field preparation more difficult and may provide a place where organisms associated with plant diseases survive. At the same time, residues are a valuable source of organic matter and nutrients when managed properly.
Trichoderma can support the transformation of plant residues and activate the soil microbiome. The rate of these processes also depends on soil moisture, temperature, straw chopping, contact with the soil and oxygen availability.
For this reason, microorganism application should be combined with even chopping and shallow incorporation of plant residues into the soil.
Trichoderma in Winter Cereals and Oilseed Rape
VitaFer TrichoPRO can be considered in crops such as:
- winter wheat,
- winter barley,
- winter rye,
- winter triticale,
- winter oilseed rape,
- newly established strawberry plantations.
The greatest benefits can be expected when the product is applied under conditions that support microbial activity. The soil should not be extremely dry, waterlogged or strongly cooled.
Soil Biology Works for the Next Season
The autumn condition of winter crops depends on more than sowing date and mineral fertilisation. Soil biological activity, organic matter availability and the rate of root development also matter.
VitaFer TrichoPRO can be part of a strategy supporting soil, roots and crop residue decomposition before winter. It is especially worth considering on fields with weaker biological activity, after straw removal or in short crop rotations.
When microbiological products are included in eco-scheme payments, current requirements, approved product lists and treatment documentation rules should always be checked.
Contact a VitaFer advisor and choose the right VitaFer TrichoPRO application timing for your crop, field conditions and current soil moisture.
