In 25 large-plot field trials in 1978–1980 the effects of recently approved granular pesticides on the establishment and yield of sugar beet were tested. Sugar yields were increased by some treatments at several sites where Docking disorder was anticipated, and plant populations and sugar yields increased at some sites containing severe infestations of soil pests. At several sites there was no response to pesticides, and greater selectivity in the use of granular pesticides on the UK sugar-beet crop is recommended.
