The current dry weather presents a great opportunity to get some drainage work done. No one size fits all when it comes to drainage. The first step is to dig a few test pits in the site to see what is impeding on drainage.

If it’s a ground water problem, then deep drains (1.5 to 2.1m deep) will help to lower the water table. If it’s due to a dense subsoil which impedes the flow of water, then shallower (1m deep) drainage will help. With ground dry, it’s a great chance to subsoil and use a mole plough to break up pans and shatter dense soils, giving air and water a path to move in.

Read more

ADVERTISEMENT

Ideal conditions for land improvement in Tyrone

In pictures: infrastructure costs on the Tullamore Farm

Dairy management: silage

Dairy management: grass