Discovery of novel crops for UK agriculture

Oilseed rape, the bright yellow flowering crop seen up and down the UK is under sustained pressure from a pest, cabbage stem flea beetle, which has the ability to decimate crops. A viable alternative to oilseed rape which isn't susceptible to this pest is critical for supporting farm businesses but also the wider environment, safeguarding a break crop for farms and a pollinator for insects.

Novel crop alternatives need to be investigated to evaluate their suitability and discover the best way to cultivate these crops to realise their full potential.