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With some crops still uncut and many fields with straw still present it is time to consider options to help get rid of this problem.
A few points are worth noting. Rows should really be spread out first but that itself is a huge challenge.
There are areas of some crops that might still be harvested if the ground dries up as some of these are still only badly brackled and the bulk of the heads are not on the ground. There is very little germination on most heads.
Where the crop is well lodged and on the ground you might try to cut the straw with discs set to give minimal cultivation.
The ground must be dry or perhaps frozen. Disc across the direction of lodging. If you can cut the straw (not easy unless it is dry and very brittle) it will make ploughing and burial much easier.
This little bit of activity might also help get some of the seeds to germinate soon as germination in the future could give rise to yet another problem.
ISTA meetings:
Many of you may know that the Seed Trade is holding three seminars next week to which all growers are invited and welcome.
Details of the three venues can be found in last week’s Irish Farmers Journal.
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