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Tillage Newsletter - January 2025

20 January 2025
Type Newsletter


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In this month's edition:

  • Beans
    In 2024, the area planted with beans reached a record 18,000ha. This was partly because farmers had fewer crop options due to a late spring, and the guaranteed income from the protein payment made beans attractive. Late planting leads to a late harvest. To ensure a successful bean crop in 2025, plant early, ideally in February or March.
  • Lime
    Soil acidity is a major factor in fertiliser efficiency. Applying lime can reduce requirements for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilisers. In 2023, 39% of tillage soils had an optimal pH level (6.5-7.0), which is a strong result. However, further improvement is needed to optimise fertiliser efficiency.
  • Selected conditionality measures
    Conditionality is simply a set of conditions that all beneficiaries of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) must adhere to. Below are some of conditions that apply to tillage farmers:
    • farmers must comply with crop diversification (2/3 crop rule) in 2025;
    • no soil test report, no P allocation – where soil samples are not taken then Index 4 for P is assumed until soil tests are taken – maximum area is 5ha per sample;
    • low-emissions equipment must be used to apply livestock manure to arable land or the livestock manure must be incorporated within 24 hours – pig slurry is low emissions only; and,
    • be aware of buffer zone requirements, especially no cultivation within 3m of any watercourse.
  • National Tillage Conference 2025
    Wednesday, January 29 | 9am-4:30pm | Lyrath Conference Centre, Paulstown Road, Kilkenny, R95 F685
    As National Tillage Conference 2025 (NTC2025) is a physical meeting only, pre-registration will be required by all attendees. Find out more about the conference or register to attend here 
  • Spring tillage seminars 2025
    The Teagasc Spring Seminars started on Tuesday, January 14 and will run until the end of February. The seminars are a must-attend for tillage farmers planning for the season ahead. These seminars will focus on key topics to help improve farm efficiency and profitability. Find your nearest seminar here
  • Health & Safety - Start 2025 with health and safety in mind
    As we start 2025, put safety and health front and centre in your plans and actions. Particular attention needs to be given to moving vehicles, such as tractors, teleporters and ATVs. Risks associated with livestock, slurry handling and avoiding falls from heights must also be closely managed. Take time now to review your risk assessment document and plan any necessary actions.