Is Now the Time to Consider Alternative Cropping?

In this episode we are talking to Skye Van Heyzen, market development manager, Ella Thackray, innovation crops product manager and Rebecca White, pulse product manager at Agrii. 

Today we are going to explore some potentially exciting alternative crops. 

Three crops that could bring some real benefits to the livestock industry and those also growing for the human food chain.

Why are alternative crops relevant now?

Agrii has been researching alternative crops for over five years to address the entire value chain, from farm to fork. Rising costs, carbon offsetting, and advancements in technology make now the perfect time for UK growers to consider alternative crops. Improved varieties and agronomic techniques offer viable options that weren't possible 20-30 years ago.

What alternative crops are being explored?

Three crops stand out for their potential benefits:

• Lupines: A high-protein crop suitable for livestock feed.
• Food Barley: A nutritious naked barley for the human food chain.
• Haricot Beans: Dry beans, including varieties used in baked beans, black beans, and blond beans.
  
  

What are the benefits of growing lupines?

Lupines are a high-quality protein crop comparable to soya, offering a home-grown alternative for livestock enterprises. Their nitrogen-fixing ability helps reduce reliance on manufactured nitrogen, which is especially valuable given rising fertiliser costs. With the right variety and agronomic approach, lupines can integrate well into rotations.

What makes food barley unique?

Food barley is a naked barley variety, free from husks, grown for human consumption. It contains beta-glucans and resistant starch, which support cardiovascular health, diabetes management, and improved gut health. It is grown much like feed barley but offers a premium market opportunity through buyback contracts with end users.

Are haricot beans suitable for UK conditions?

Haricot beans have historically faced challenges in the UK, particularly with combining. However, advancements in equipment and agronomy now allow successful harvesting. This crop has significant market potential, as the UK currently imports over 60,000 tonnes annually. Varieties such as black and blond beans are easier to harvest, but there is high demand for white beans used in baked beans.

What is the market potential for these crops?

The potential for each crop is significant:

• Lupines: The UK imports 3 million tonnes of soya annually. Even replacing a fraction with home-grown lupines would reduce reliance on imports.
• Food Barley: This crop could replace existing barley in food products, offering better nutritional value and market premiums.
• Haricot Beans: With yields of 2-3 tonnes per hectare, up to 30,000 hectares could be grown domestically to reduce import dependence.
  
  

Are these crops profitable for UK growers?

Each crop has demonstrated profitability under the right conditions:

• Lupines: While yields can vary, advancements in agronomy and variety selection make this a viable option with promising gross margins.
• Food Barley: Offers premium contracts that compensate for slightly lower yields compared to traditional spring barley.
• Haricot Beans: Competitive gross margins make this a valuable addition to rotations, particularly with strong consumer demand.
  
  

How can farmers learn more?

Farmers interested in alternative crops can contact their local Agrii representative. Specific inquiries about food barley and haricot beans can be directed to the Seeds trading team, while Rebecca Gibson leads lupine projects.

What advice do the experts have for farmers?

Key takeaways for farmers considering alternative crops:

• Fit the crop to your enterprise: Choose crops that align with your existing rotations, equipment, and market opportunities.
• Don’t dismiss past failures: Advances in technology, varieties, and agronomy may resolve challenges faced with these crops in the past.
• Engage with the value chain: Collaborate with end users and agronomists to maximise market potential and profitability.