While the dry weather this week will bring some relief to tillage farmers many still may opt not to plant spring crops this year.

According to Teagasc’s latest crop update, spring plantings are will behind normal with no more than 30% of cereals sown nationally.

It says lower yields are now likely with the increased threat of BYDV due to the late plantings and aphid KDR resistance.

Teagasc highlights that leaving land fallow is now a serious contender as an option for spring cereal land.

It also says field operations are also well behind with winter cereals. Teagasc says winter barleys with no fungicide applied are now on a two spray fungicide programme with the first to be applied between gs31-32.

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Crop Update

Viability of cropping in 2016

As the days tick by the yield potential of crops reduce. Traditionally later sown crops have lower yields compared to earlier sown crops. It’s imperative all growers complete a financial analysis of the potential returns from cropping this year.

Winter Wheat

Growth has been slow in the past few weeks and the unfavourable weather has impacted on field operations, especially spraying.

Most crops have moved into stem extension (gs 30) with forward crops at 1st node (gs 31). Disease levels remain low but there is sufficient inoculum at base of crops to warrant robust disease strategies. Eyespot and mildew are occasionally reported.

Winter Barley

Growth has been relatively slow the past two weeks. Crops have greened up but are generally around GS31. Disease levels increased with rhyncho very visible on Cassia and other varieties.

Brown rust is visible in most six rows and Tower. Final nitrogen applications will be applied in the coming days. Most barleys with no fungicide applied to date should only receive two fungicides to maximise yields and profits.

Winter Oats

Oats are at 1st node (gs 31) with advanced crops at 2nd node (gs 32). Mildew levels are variable and need to be assessed carefully before spraying. Weed control has been variable, most likely due to cold weather in March affecting product efficacy.

Most oats are displaying physiological spotting and off-colours from the cold conditions, wet soils and spray effects.

Winter Oil Seed Rape

Despite the cool weather, crops are growing with flowers appearing in most fields. Uneven flowering is common countrywide due to the earlier pigeon grazing and the slower than normal growth. Pollen beetle is becoming more common but still at low levels and is unlikely to inflict damage at current levels.

Beans

Spring beans are just breaking the ground while the first flower buds are appearing on autumn drilled beans. Watch out for crow and Pea and Bean weevil damage over the next few weeks.

Spring Cereals

Early drilled wheat, barley and oats are just emerging. Nationally, it is estimated that close on 70% of spring barley is yet to be drilled. It is very late for spring oats and spring wheat but the 2/3 crop rules need to be taken into account before deciding not to plant.