Farmers planting catch crops under the Green, Low-Carbon, Agri-Environment Scheme (GLAS) have until September 15 to get crops in the ground.
However, it is important to note that at tonight’s (September 10) Teagasc Crops Forum Michael Hennessey of Teagasc stated that he understands that the Department of Agriculture has applied for a derogation on this planting deadline, but the response to this request is unlikely to come before September 15.
The deadline is proving difficult for many as they try to finish the harvest and clear fields. Ground conditions are also less than ideal in many areas due to heavy rain over the past few weeks.
Extension granted in 2017
In 2017, farmers were granted an extension to the deadline due to the wet conditions and delayed harvest.
The deadline was extended to September 30 and a further extension was granted until October 28 when pressure remained on farmers. These crops then remained in-situ until January 31, as opposed to December 1.
Under current weather conditions some farmers may find themselves under pressure to plant before the deadline as crops remain to be harvested and straw is lying on fields across the country.
GLAS requirements
Farmers planting catch crops under GLAS must do so using light cultivation techniques and the seed can be broadcast or drilled.
Under the scheme, farmers are required to grow a minimum area of 10ha (priority action) or 4ha (general action).
At least two species must be planted in a GLAS catch crop mix and these mixes must follow minimum seed requirements.
To read more about species and seed rates under GLAS click here
Catch crops can be rotated on different parcels of land as long as the initial area planted in maintained. The crop can also be planted on split parcels.
Grass cannot be under-sown with a catch crop and the crop must be planted by the deadline of September 15 and remain in-situ until December 1.