Tillage farmers have finally addressed the massive backlog of work, with planting of spring crops now almost complete. However, cold weather means growth is moderate.

Cereal acreage for spring crops is well back. Early sown spring crops are looking thinner and hungrier due to the cold weather. Winter crops are also showing signs of stress. All fertiliser has been applied, with first fungicide application made on most barley crops and due on wheat crops. All crops now need kindness. On the price front, the first glimmer of good news in some time came with a rise in prices last Wednesday/Thursday. Prices have receded again, but some trading took place.