We all know farmers can be hard to buy for. Here are five ideas for presents for the tillage farmer in your life this Christmas.

A grain trading book

We could all do with learning a bit more about grain trading. Back to the Futures: Crashing Dirt Bikes, Chasing Cows and Unravelling the Mystery of Commodity Futures Markets is a book by a US agricultural economist Dr Scott Irwin.

Scott joined us on the Tillage Podcast at the start of December .

At that point, he announced that the book was about to be launched as an audio book, so you can listen in on the tractor. It could be an ideal present.

In the book, Scott helps to explain grain marketing and futures markets through stories from his life and childhood.

Head light

Tillage farmers are often working in the dark, whether it’s early in the morning or late at night.

So, a headlight is very useful for checking on machinery and opening seed bags.

A few high-vis jackets are well worth a purchase as well for everyone on the farm.

Penknife

A penknife is always a great tool to have. From opening bags and cans to checking growth stages of crops, it’s an essential tool to have in your pocket.

Gloves

Gloves are a very important item for safety and surveys show that some farmers do not wear gloves when spraying. They really should be.

See a survey on pesticide use here. You can never have enough gloves from workwear to waterproof and chemical-safe gloves. Get them a few pairs and boxes.

Subscription to the Irish Farmers Journal

Of course, a subscription to the Irish Farmers Journal is a must for any farmer. Check out the link below to see what your options are.

You can now get the paper in the post every Thursday morning or view it online. You will get a free goodie bag with a new subscription. Click here for details.