Thursday 1 December is an important date in the tillage calendar, particularly with the excellent forecast and ground conditions.

Ploughing is permitted from 1 December without the need for green cover to be established within six weeks, meaning cultivation for spring crops can begin. Similarly, herbicide clearance of fields in advance of spring cultivation is now permissible. While incorporation of catch crops and green cover crops is permitted, farmers are being advised to leave them in place to bulk up and maximise the nutrients available to the 2017 crop.

Meanwhile, Boortmalt is engaged in negotiations with Diageo over a new contract. The current five year deal has expired.

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Straw shortage worries farmers

Winter ploughing should now be considered for spring crops