What if one feed wheat variety could offer competitive yields, a solid agronomic package, and the ability to ward off barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) from day one?

Following the launch of RGT Guardsman, that dream is now a reality; representing the first wheat with BYDV resistance to yield more than 100% of controls on the latest AHDB Recommended List.

Historically, varieties with BYDV resistance have come with compromise, however, Guardsman represents a significant landmark in the development of the critical trait, says RAGT’s Andrew Creasy.

“BYDV resistance is something many farmers are interested in, especially in the mild autumns we’ve been experiencing recently, which has increased aphid risk,” adds Andrew. “Having a variety that protects against the virus while offering more than 100% yield is a huge step forward.”

Full package

While options such as RGT Wolverine, RGT Grouse and RGT Goldfinch have attracted attention in the past, Guardsman is the first from the suite to deliver the full package, highlights Agrovista’s Ted Williams.

“It’s the first time we’ve seen high yield (103%), BYDV resistance and strong disease scores all in one variety,” he points out. “It’s a considerable step-up on Wolverine which had limited disease resistance, Grouse which didn’t make the RL, and then Goldfinch which is a Group 2.”

Ted adds that his views are based on Agrovista independently trialling Guardsman for around two years. “It’s performed well across the country – even last year which was was an especially challenging season. It’s a really interesting variety and easily sits alongside the stalwart Group 4s.”

Disease package

Looking at Guardsman’s RL scores, the variety is rated 8 for yellow rust, 6 for brown rust and 6 septoria. Critically, it doesn’t feature the YR15 yellow rust resistance gene, meaning its unaffected by last spring’s population change, points out Ted.

“It’s also one of the only varieties across all wheat groups to have young plant resistance to yellow rust, indicated by ‘r’ on the RL,” he raises. “This is according to UKCPVS tests and RL trial data, and clearly a benefit to growers.”

Wider agronomics

According to Ted, the main watch-out for Guardsman is its potential PGR requirements. “It requires careful management, particularly if it’s drilled early.

“But, we recognise it as a slow-developing variety with a prostrate growth habit that’s perfectly suited to the early drilling slot, which is exactly what you’re looking for in a variety with BYDV resistance.

“This means it can be the first variety planted in autumn – a significant benefit given the unpredictable weather conditions growers have been experiencing recently. This can then be balanced with varieties that feature alternative genetics to help manage risk on farm,” he concludes.