Tillage Newsletter - March 2025

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In this month's edition:

• Winter cereals 
  Winter cereals are well established this season thanks to earlier sowing and good growth in October and November. The priority this month will be fertiliser. While most crops received a herbicide last autumn, it is important to inspect fields to determine if follow-up treatment is needed. Oats and advanced winter barley crops will require a growth regulator by the end of the month. 
  
  • Winter barley: Aim to apply the main split of nitrogen (N) by GS31. Sulphur (S – 15kg/ha) and trace
    element deficiencies (based on soil analysis and field history) should also be applied before GS31. 
  • Winter wheat: Apply 40-50kg/ha of N as the first split in mid March or by GS30. Increase rates to
    75kg/ha for thin crops, second wheat or where take-all is a risk. Generally divide the N applications one-quarter:onehalf:one-quarter over three splits. 
  • Winter oats: The first application of approximately 50% of the total N requirement should be applied by GS30 (early to mid March). 
  • Winter oilseed rape: This season, oilseed rape crops show significant variation in canopy size. In areas where pigeons were not an issue, crops have developed large canopies, leading to N savings.  
• Spring crops 
  • Spring beans: Beans make good financial sense with a forward price of €240/t on offer, in addition to guaranteed income from the protein payment, which is estimated to be €500/ha for 2025. 
  • Spring barley: There is an excellent choice of varieties on the 2025 Recommended List. It is worth taking some time to study the recommended list and select a variety that is suitable for your farm.  
  • Pig slurry: Pig slurry is a valuable source of N, phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and trace elements, and is widely available to tillage farmers. 
• Health & Safety - Plan workload 
  With field operations increasing, it is important to plan your workload and avoid rushing. Be vigilant to avoid
  injuries associated with being crushed. High-risk areas include raised loads like bulk bags of fertiliser, raised machines and being in contact with a moving vehicle. Stay vigilant and stay clear of crush zones.