Protecting autumn-sown cereal crops has been identified as a priority by Michael Hennessy, Teagasc’s head of Crops Knowledge Transfer.
Benchmarking yields to help pinpoint strengths and weaknesses in crop management is an equally important issues for tillage farmers at this time of the year.
The same principle holds when it comes to assessing overall farm performance levels.
The Teagasc representative explained:
“As we approach the shortest day of the year and the weather turns wetter, it is an excellent time to reflect on the autumn planting season.”
Protecting autumn-sown crops
According to Hennessy, this year, with crops emerging in near-perfect conditions, many tillage fields are looking impressive from any direction.
“But the real challenge lies ahead: protecting the potential of these crops and minimising avoidable damage. Farmers often take proactive steps to protect their tillage crops from livestock over winter.
“Ensuring boundary fences are secure can save considerable effort and losses later, as livestock damage to crops can be devastating. As the old saying goes: ‘A stitch in time saves nine’,” he explained.
This is also true for “drainage systems, which were tested during the challenging winters of 2022 and 2023”, he added.
“Many fields experienced issues that highlighted the importance of regular maintenance. Now is the ideal time to inspect boundary ditches, drains and gripes.
“Blockages should be cleared to ensure water flows freely and to prevent long-term damage to soil and crop health,” Hennessy continued.
Benchmarking
Turning to the issue of benchmarking, Hennessey pointed out that comparing one’s crop yields to others, whether neighbours or national averages , can provide valuable insights.
“However, growers take care with casual comparisons as yields discussed in social settings may not always be accurate.
“Instead, it should be a case of growers use these dark and wet days to sit down in their offices and calculate their own averages for each crop.”
Profitability
While yield is a critical metric, profitability is the ultimate measure of success. Many farmers use tools like Excel or Teagasc’s eCrops programme to track costs and revenues per field or crop.
For those growers seeking a comprehensive analysis, the Teagasc eProfit Monitor is an invaluable resource.
By entering detailed cost and revenue data, individual growers can calculate net margins for each crop.
Additionally, Teagasc advisors can use the Teagasc Machinery Cost Programme to provide an accurate assessment of individuals’ annual machinery expenses.