Farming Today - 29/10/2026: Aphids, Laser bird scarer, Budget reaction
Download 29/10/2026: Aphids, Laser bird scarer, Budget reaction
Commercial salad farmers have seen record numbers of aphids in 2026, not just here in the UK but in all of Europe’s major salad growing areas too. Up to 85% of the UK crop has been affected, leading to more being imported from Europe, earlier in the season.
This week we're looking at pest control on farms. Birds cause substantial damage, including taking fruit crops. We meet a vineyard owner who's employing a laser bird scarer to keep them off his grapes.
And we get reaction to the government's budget. The NFU says it was a 'missed opportunity', offering nothing to ease the dire cash flow problems facing farms, and no support for food production. We hear the verdict of the Country Land and Business Association.
Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Sally Challoner.
Published on Thursday, 29th October 2026.
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