Oilseed rape prices significantly higher than this time last year means that heads are turning to take a fresh look at the crop, despite its many problems. With more of the crop maybe going into the ground this autumn, before making a final decision, agronomy firm, Hutchinsons, is urging growers to think carefully about how they will get crops to perform well amidst the many establishment challenges. Cabbage stem flea beetle has become the greatest concern in many areas, but seedbed moisture, slugs and pigeons remain constant threats to establishing crops successfully and building yield potential. Hutchinsons Yorkshire-based agronomist, David Stead, said the key to success is drilling crops early into good conditions to establish strong, healthy, deep-rooted plants with greater resilience.