Tillage Newsletter - December 2023

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In this month's edition:

• Crop management
  Unfortunately for most tillage farmers 2023 has been one of the most difficult seasons in living memory. It will therefore be remembered for a long time for all the wrong reasons. A difficult start to the year was compounded by a drought at the wrong time and it’s been pretty much wet since the end of June. The difficulties have continued into autumn and it is going to leave farmers with many difficult decisions to make over the coming weeks and months.
• Farm performance
  Judging performance in a year such as this can give a very negative view of a farm business. While December is always a good month to take stock of what has happened during the previous season and then plan for the coming season, this may well be the year where you simply assess options that can make the farm more resilient in terms of income, soils, labour, etc.
• Nutrient management planning
  Another job that can be completed in the coming weeks is a nutrient management plan for 2024. With the fertiliser register now active you must make sure that you are compliant with the nitrates rules when it comes to buying chemical fertiliser.
• Health & Safety - Staying safe over Christmas
  It is important to be mindful of the safety of children during this time. Ensure there is a safe secure play area in place when children are outside. When children are in the farmyard they must always be supervised. Easy to read danger signs should be in place and these signs should be explained to children. Give preventing fires in your home and on your farm your attention.