Tillage farms all over the country have burst into activity as all types of spring field work get under way. This ends almost six months of difficult to impossible field conditions.

The early days of this week saw ploughs moving in almost every area of the country.

However, they cannot yet work in every field due to persisting dampness or wet spots. Not surprisingly, land is ploughing up damp and tight in places following all the winter rainfall, but it is drying out in the favourable weather conditions and drills are now moving too.

Not surprisingly, land is ploughing up damp and tight in places following all the winter rainfall, but it is drying out in the favourable weather conditions

Drills have been moving in parts of the country since last Sunday, with all crops currently being planted.

Some, but not all farmers are still trying to get a range of crops planted, as well as spring barley. Many growers are still planting or set to plant beans and they are happy to do so.

Many others are taking the opportunity to plant spring wheat where they have access to seed.

News that the two- and three-crop rule may not apply will be welcomed by some, but good farming practice should still drive growers to have a number of crops on farm where possible.

There were even many growers rolling winter crops to help bury stones and banish the poor seedbeds

Overall, progress to date has been variable. This is partly regional, but it is also local as growers move on lighter dryer ground initially while waiting for heavier ground to dry out. This seems to be the case in all counties.

As well as ploughing and planting, most other types of field work are also under way.

There have been a lot of fertiliser spreaders out on some winter crops for the first time.

There have also been many sprayers working, generally applying herbicides to winter crops.

There were even many growers rolling winter crops to help bury stones and banish the poor seedbeds.

Three-crop rule

The option to apply for an exemption from the two-/three-crop greening rule has been extended to all tillage farmers by the Department of Agriculture due to the exceptionally wet weather seen early this year.

“Tillage farmers may choose the crop options that best suit the soil conditions and the time of the year,” the Department said.

“If, as a result of these choices, a farmer does not comply with the crop diversification rules?, an exemption may be granted.”

Farmers who wish to avail of the exemption must do so through their 2020 BPS application. However, this does not guarantee it will be granted and each request will be considered by the Department on a case by case basis.

Any queries in relation to the exception should be directed to the Greening Unit at greening@agriculture.gov.ie.