Rainfall over the past week has quietened the market for fodder. Farmers are more hopeful now of getting reasonable second cuts of silage.

Prices for hay and silage bales are broadly unchanged but sellers report fewer enquiries. Round 4x4 bales of hay continue to sell at €20 to €30 each, depending on quality. Silage bales are priced in the range of €18 to €28 per bale depending on area.

Demand and prices are keenest in areas where grass growth has been hardest hit by moisture deficits. Demand and prices elsewhere are lower.

Some of last year’s barley straw is being advertised at €12 and €14 per 4x4 bale – this is where sellers need to free up shed space.