Terra Range

Introducing The Terra Range from Target Fertilisers

Author: Philip Kennedy 

 

Target Fertilisers have introduced their new range of sustainable fertiliser solutions. The three new products are namely TerraCAN + S (22N + 3S), TerraGRAZE + S (22N-5K + 3.5S) and TerraCUT + S (20N -2P-12K +2S). These products have been introduced to the market to provide customers with a solution to decrease their total nitrogen (N) use, while maintaining high crop outputs. Typically, these products will allow for up to 25% reduction in N use to provide the same yield due to increased N uptake and efficiency. It is also a great advantage that there are products in the range containing P and K. The trial results included below speak for themselves and locally we have received excellent feedback from customers commenting on good growth and dry matter levels.

 

How It Works:

The bio-stimulant PSI 362 enhances the biological processes within the plant. These bio-stimulants stimulate the nitrate transponders in the plant to take up more of the available nitrogen in the soil than they would normally do. The extra nitrates taken up are converted into amino acids which produce more chlorophyll and therefore more photosynthesis takes place. This means we get similar biomass levels produced even with 20% less N as well as seeing higher dry matter levels in the crop afterwards.

 

Irish Agriculture Challenges:

  • The current E.U. Farm to Fork Strategy is targeting a 20% reduction in fertiliser use by 2030.
  • They have a goal for all water to be classified as good or excellent by 2027; this is currently only around 50%, with highly stocked intensive areas noticeably poorer than others.
  • Dairy cows’ organic nitrogen allocation has already increased (85kg to 89kg) with proposals to increase higher-yielding cows even further which in turn will reduce permissible total chemical N applications.
  • Nitrogen use efficiency is likely to be part of a derogation review. (Teagasc 2019 figures reported 24.4% utilisation out of total N applied).
  • Greenhouse gas emissions require lower methane and nitrate oxide levels and Ireland has ammonia fines pending for 17/18/19 thus far.

 

Sustainable Fertiliser Solutions:

Target Fertilisers have now introduced the new Terra Range. Brandon Biosciences identified a specific molecule derived from marine bio-actives, the most abundant renewable resource available, called PSI 362 based on 22 years research.

PSI 362 is applied to granular N as a coating working at multiple levels on N absorption, transportation and utilisation. Multiple trials have been conducted over 8 different soil types. This product allows an 80% rate (20% less N applied) to provide the same growth response compared to Super CAN applied at a 100% rate and lower N required due to increased uptake. Dry matter in tested grass crops was also improved as well as silage quality improving by over 5% DMD.

The chart below is a mix of 1st, 2nd and 3rd cut for both years on TerraCAN vs SuperCAN CCF:

The chart below is a trial of grass on TerraCAN vs SuperCAN CCF:

As you can see in the table below there were additional benefits to herbage quality when TerraCAN + S was used.

 

Herbage quality with Terra Range

 

Leaf analysis where TerraCAN was applied contained higher rates of nitrate in the crop which allows for less ‘free’ N to cause any environmental impacts. PSI 362 puts more nitrogen in the plant from every kg applied so it can grow to become a high-quality crop.

This is a natural product with no harmful residues which increases crop yields and quality. The PSI technology platform has delivered consistent results over the past 5 years in trials. The increase in nutrient uptake efficiency is part of the solution to lower ammonia and greenhouse gases. The Terra range can bridge the gap between required crop yields and lower N allowances.

This product allows an 80% rate (20% less N applied) to provide the same growth response compared to Super CAN applied at a 100% rate. Lower N is required due to increased uptake. Dry matter in tested grass crops also improved as well as silage quality, which improved by over 5% DMD.

Leaf analysis contained higher rates of nitrate in the crop which allows for less ‘Free’ N to cause any environmental impacts. PSI362 puts more nitrogen in the plant from every kg applied so it can grow to become a high-quality crop. This is a natural product with no harmful residues which increases crop yields and quality.

 

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Philip Reck

Philip Reck Obituary: A tribute to our colleague and friend

Authors: Mrs. Anne Reck & Mrs. Marguerite Furlong 

The tragic death of Philip Reck of Courtnacuddy, Enniscorthy on March 15th, 2021, has left a huge void in the lives of his beloved partner Martina, his two daughters, Aideen and Eve, his mother Anne, and brothers Eamon and Michael. He will also be sadly missed by his friends, neighbours, work colleagues at The Cooney Furlong Grain Company, and the wider agricultural community.

Early years 

Philip was born on April 1st, 1979, the third son of Peter and Anne Reck (nee Marsh) of Courtnacuddy, Enniscorthy. He was predeceased by his father Peter Reck in 2016.

He attended Courtnacuddy Primary School and completed his secondary education at the CBS., Enniscorthy. From 1997 to 1999, Philip attended Waterford Institute of Technology where he graduated with a certificate in Agricultural Science. Philip then left for Wales where he received a BSc. Hons., Degree in Agriculture and Business Studies from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth. During this time, he also qualified as an IASIS Certified Agronomist. He then completed a certificate in Crop Nutrition Management, from which he was awarded ‘Student of the Year’.

While studying in Wales, he completed two consecutive harvests in the UK, during 2000 and 2001. He then travelled to Australia for the harvest, where he drove a combine harvester in Queensland and New South Wales. This was followed by a spraying season in New South Wales. At the end of that period abroad, Philip decided to return to Ireland.

Career 

It was the harvest of 2002 that Philip began working at Walter Furlong Grain Ltd. This was a time when major changes in mechanisation on tillage farms were taking place.

From 2002 onwards, Philip held several roles within the group, culminating in two high-level appointments. He was Production Manager at The Cooney Furlong Grain Company, where one of his roles was the formulation and production of 150 different fertiliser products. He also held the position of Farm Manager at Walter Furlong Grain Ltd.

It was then that his professionalism, interpersonal and organisational skills became evident, which were the essential components to the smooth operation of both companies. His positive approach to both roles and his consistent and high-quality work guaranteed the overall efficient performance of both companies and he was always willing to co-operate and listen to his work colleagues. Creative thinking and problem-solving were two skills frequently displayed by Philip in his workplace. He possessed quiet confidence when it came to all things connected to farming and soil health, insisting that every job on the farm should be carried out to the highest level of perfection. It was during this time period that he also contributed a monthly report on crops for the Arable Section in the UK’s Farmers Weekly Magazine for a period of two years.

Lasting legacy 

Outside of his work, Philip was widely known in agricultural circles for his expertise in soil science, cover crops, and cereal promotion and was always happy to share his knowledge and offer advice. He had a love for continuous research and learning and lived by the motto that “every day is a school day”.

Philip was a leader and promoter of catch crops and was someone who placed a huge emphasis on their use in cereal production. In many respects, he was ahead of the scientific research organisations in Ireland with his knowledge and deep understanding of their use and environmental benefits. By sharing his research and knowledge, he was instrumental in the ten-fold increase in catch crops sown in this country over the last 10 years.

It was his deep interest and research into soil fertility, that allowed him to help other farmers and farm advisors improve soil fertility. He pioneered the use of broad-spectrum/in-depth soil analysis in Wexford to show farmers and farm advisors their Calcium vs Magnesium ratios, while also advising them to look beyond the basic pH soil test.

Philip’s passion for cover crops and the knowledge he personally built up from his experience trialing the different cover crop species and mixtures, led the Irish Department of Agriculture to seek his advice on how they could encourage other Irish farmers to start growing these crops on their farms. This meant he could accurately advise farmers on the most suitable type of lime needed for individual soil types, and why some farms needed lime even though the pH was reading 6.5 and upwards. This led him to earn the title “The Lime King” among his friends and colleagues in BASE Ireland. He was also well known as a cover crop innovator among leading farmers and agricultural advisors, not just here in Ireland, but across the UK, Europe and America. A fantastic achievement for a great son of Courtnacuddy.

Philip also had an exceptional understanding of conservation agriculture, soil health, and regenerative farming in Ireland, and the role they play in contributing to sustainable cereal production.  This understanding and expertise have been acknowledged and respected by many of his peers in Ireland and abroad.

It was Philip’s passion for wildflowers and the benefits to biodiversity and soil health that made him aware of the massive decline in pollinating insects, especially bees, and that this balance could be redressed on arable farms by drilling grass margins and sowing “bee-friendly” native wildflower seed mixtures. He also advocated the use of native Irish wildflowers as a break crop, experimenting with seed mixes to ensure weed control, while also using low growing varieties whose matt forming roots would protect against soil erosion.

From its inception seven years ago, Philip was deeply involved with BASE Ireland, where he held the position of Chairman for two years. His great service to all his friends and colleagues in BASE Ireland is well remembered. The following tribute appeared on their Instagram Page on 16th March 2021:

“It is never easy to speak of someone’s passing, much more one so tragic and untimely.  It is with shock and our very heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Philip Reck, a true pioneer in farming and once our selfless leader. One whom we all held in such high regard.

Philip was a true gentleman, known for his kindness, patience, and generosity. He is remembered by us as a much-loved friend, even beyond farming. Philip’s energy, enthusiasm, and friendly nature will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege to meet him, not least by BASE Ireland.

As a group, we will strive to continue Philip’s great legacy in bringing change to farming, as a testament to the work he selflessly put in over the past seven years since our inception. “Farmers educating farmers” a direct quote from Philip himself, became the very motto and ethos at the core of our existence and the very mantra we will revert to should we ever lose sight of our goal.  Thank you for everything Philip, it was an honour to know and learn from you.”

It is hoped that Philip’s legacy for bringing sustainable change to farming and his mantra of ‘farmers educating farmers’ will never be forgotten. In memory of his all too short life, The Cooney Furlong Grain Company is currently setting up a bursary in Philip’s name with a local secondary school. The objective is to financially assist a student entering third-level agricultural education.

While the Irish Agricultural sector has experienced a huge loss with Philip’s tragic passing it fades into insignificance compared to the loss experienced by his immediate family. Philip was a devoted father to his two girls, Aideen and Eve and as a family, they regularly enjoyed bike rides, swimming, GAA, and hikes through the fields and woods with the dogs. This was an opportunity to study the life cycles of the common field plants, animals, and the ever-changing seasons. At home, he was also an avid grower of many varieties of pumpkins.

Philip and his partner Martina were truly ‘muintir na tuaithe’, people of the countryside which they both enjoyed along with their daughters. Philip’s legacy will live on in Martina’s assurance that Aideen and Eve will grow into two more ‘mna na tuaithe’ 

It is said that: if your name is held in the hearts of others you will never truly die.

A life well-lived.

 

Slan abhaile Philip, Guimid rath De ar d’anam dhilis

 

spring barley

Information on the restrictions on Roundup (Glyphosate) applications to Food Grade Barley Crops

The Cooney Furlong Grain Company will be purchasing food grade barley this year with premiums paid on certain varieties this harvest.

Our purchasers need this barley to be glyphosate-free; therefore if you have potential food grade barley, we request that you do not spray a crop of spring barley with glyphosate. Our agronomists will inspect these crops before harvesting to verify crops have not been sprayed with glyphosate and we will be asking growers for confirmation of non-use at our weighbridges as a further control point for segregation of crops and varieties.

The Cooney Furlong Grain Company is committed to sourcing and supplying food grade barley to premium markets. To access these markets we need to be able to guarantee glyphosate-free barley. We appreciate your co-operation in this regard and look forward to a safe and successful harvest.

All growers of premium barley are expected to be IGAS members; if you are not registered we encourage you to do so over the next few weeks. Forms are available from our office.

Glyphosate application is still allowed to feed grade crops such as Oilseed rape, Oats and Wheat if weed control is required. If this happens, remember to clean combines and trailers appropriately to avoid cross-contamination of feed grade barley crops and food grade crops.

Ensure header, stone trap, sieves, elevator boots, and grain tank are cleaned of feed grade crops prior to harvesting food grade crops.

If you have any queries regarding any of the above, please contact your account manager.

 

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Tractor reseeding grass in field

Successful reseeding of grassland

Author: Philip Kennedy – Area Manager (New Ross) 

 

Reseeding is an essential part of any grassland farm and should be considered as a long-term investment, with newly reseeded swards typically lasting for at least 8–10 years.

Planning is essential and ideally, you will have areas marked for reseeding the previous autumn and have your field soil tested at this stage as it is a great opportunity to rectify the pH and the levels of calcium and magnesium in the soil.

When selecting your grass varieties, you must decide on what you intend to do with the field. E.g. grazing, cutting, or perhaps a dual-purpose sward. The Teagasc Pasture Profit Index (PPI) is a very useful tool to choose varieties suited to your individual needs. A good mixture of tetraploids and diploids with good early spring growth and the highest PPI is most desirable.

With the new derogation rules, clover must also be included in the grass seed mixture with a minimum of 0.6 kg/acre for standard clover seed or 1 kg/acre for a pelleted clover seed. Good free-draining soil will generally be sowed with 40-50% diploid and 50-60% tetraploid in the mix.

 

Destruction:

Old pastures should be sprayed off with a good glyphosate product at a rate capable of killing old weeds and scutch grass (couch grass). Bentgrass can be difficult to control due to its slim leaf, and max glyphosate rates will be required to control it effectively. This can also be done on silage ground and the old crop can be cut after 7 to 10 days and ensiled (after this period your forage value will be greatly reduced). This is a good way of getting low levels of sods to deal with, especially when using non-inversion system. A further 10 days after cutting may be required to allow roots to die off. A minimum of at least 5 to 7 days will be required to let glyphosate work before ploughing.

 

Lime:

Reseeding is an ideal time to apply lime and work it into the soil. Aim for a pH of at least 6.3 as new seeds will not survive in a low pH soil. Even if the field has received lime a few years ago, it will still need to be required to deal with the rise in acidity due to the decaying old pasture.

Choose your rate and type of lime (calcium/magnesium) from your soil sample advice. In general, 1 to 2 tonnes will be required. If there is no lime required on your sample, it is still best to use 1 tonne of ground limestone per acre or some granulated lime to deal with the rise in acidity as the old pasture decays.

 

Lime being spread on reseeded ground

 

Fertiliser:

When it comes to fertiliser, it is important to consult your soil samples. Some chemical Phosphorous (P) is essential in all reseeds, even in a high index situation due to small roots not being able to get P (Nitrates directive will allow chemical P to be used even on a high index when reseeding). The P in slurry or FYM won’t release quickly enough for a reseed. Typically, 3 bags of 10-10-20 per acre will be used. In a low index P and Potassium (K) situation, up to 4.5 bags of 10-10-20 will be required. Once grass seeds are up, apply 40 to 50 units of Nitrogen (N) plus Sulphur (S) per acre to drive them on as the undeveloped root system will be unable to forage for organic nitrogen.

 

Seedbed:

A fine firm seedbed with no sods and good seed to soil contact is essential for a successful reseed. The field should also be leveled correctly. If direct drilling, it is essential to apply lime, as this method ideally needs soil moisture to work best. A perennial ryegrass mix should be sown at 14 kg per acre, plus the clover.

 

Rolling:

Rolling is one of the more important stages of the reseeding process and may often be the difference between a great and a poor result. A heavy flat roller that is driven slowly gives the best results. Rolling holds in moisture, ensures good soil seed contact, and reduces the risk of frit fly, slugs, and leather jacket issues.

In general, if there is a lot of grass visible under the tractor wheels and the double-rolled headlands, you haven’t rolled the field well enough. Consider rolling the field twice in dry conditions or at least before and after sowing. In permanent pasture, a ring roller is not heavy enough. Rolling between harrow runs is also recommended.

 

Slug moving through grass

Pests:

Leather jackets, slugs, and frit fly are the main pest issues we encounter with a new reseed and the field should be monitored regularly during the first few weeks. Slugs are a big problem in wet conditions and can normally be found underneath large stones or sods. Putting out slates or bags with stones on top of them can be useful to check on the slug population as they will hide underneath these.

 

Weed Control:

This is the best time to control weeds especially docks and chickweed while they are still small. Aim to spray weeds 5 to 6 weeks after sowing when they are very young. Where clover is present, you must have at least 2 to 3 leaves on the grass before a herbicide can be applied to avoid damage.

A large range of non-clover safe products are available and there are also a couple of clover safe products available.

 

Grazing:

It is best to graze a new reseed as opposed to cutting as this best promotes tillering. Take out at a low cover to allow light into weaker tillers etc. Be sure not to graze too bare; if roots can be pulled up by the animals, it is best left until the plants are well anchored in the ground.

 

Stitching in without spraying off:

A tired sward can be rejuvenated by stitching in with a direct drill. Aim to sow 8 to 10 kg of tetraploids per acre as they have proven to be more vigorous. Graze the field every 10 to 12 days to allow light into the new seeds. Rolling and fertiliser should also be used in this situation and granulated lime or ground limestone should also be applied as per test.

 

Field of multi-species swards

 

Multi-species Mixture:

A multi-species mixture combines four species including nitrogen-fixing and nitrogen-lifting types, offering significant benefits to sheep, beef, and dairy farmers, particularly in low input systems. The deep rooting species such as perennial chicory and plantain means nutrients are taken up from a different part of the soil profile than is the case with shallower rooting ryegrasses. Having a range of different species will also mean multiple sources of protein, energy, and minerals, presenting a more complete nutritional profile to the grazing animal.

Other benefits of multi-species swards include; improved soil structure, increased drought resistance, greater animal performance (increase in milk solids), and reduced levels of internal parasites. One of the major disadvantages to multi-species swards is the lack of weed control options. Many of the present weed control options will kill out the likes of chicory and plantain.

There is a large range of different grass seed mixtures available and a bespoke grass seed mixture can be made on request to adapt to your unique soils or enterprises. Our Cooney Furlong farm representatives are available to discuss your specific requirements.

 

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Guide to rearing replacement heifers

Author: Jack Scallan – Ruminant Feed Specialist 

 

At this time of year, most spring-born calves are out at grass, albeit 2-3 weeks later than normal. Now is a good time to consider what targets should be met over the next 12 to 24 months to achieve the desired weight and size at first calving (approximately 24 months old).

Setting goals is particularly important for replacement heifers as it can cost between €1400 -1600 to raise a replacement heifer from birth to first calving. Any delay in reaching the desired goals will incur extra costs that will have to be paid back at a later stage.

 

Calf Growth Rates: 

Calves should be able to achieve a growth rate of 750 grams/day on fresh well-managed grass, to reach a target weight of 260 kg on November 1st. Many factors such as a poorly managed or old pasture, bad weather, etc., may result in a requirement for supplementation with concentrates (up to 1.5 kg/head/day of a high energy, high fibre, 16% crude protein nut/ration), to attain this target. Routine vaccination and dosing programmes should be introduced in the first summer at grass as this will boost the immune system and help prevent major disease breakdowns in later life, such as IBR, BVD, etc.  Calves should be weighed at least three times in the first summer; at turnout, mid-summer (when being treated for worms, etc.), and at housing, to ensure that they are gaining the required weight.

 

Silage Quality: 

Silage quality will determine how much if any, concentrates are given in the first winter, to maintain an average daily gain of 0.5 kg, however, 0.75 kg/day should be the target. This will ensure that the heifers are at 60% of their mature body weight at breeding (320 – 350 kg).  If silage quality is poor, approximately 62% DMD, then up to 2 kg of 16% crude protein concentrate should be fed per day. The housing itself should be airy but not draughty with plenty of space to move around. Clean fresh water should always be available.

Silage being held and check for quality

Breeding: 

At breeding time, the heifers should be weighing about 350 kg, as the better-developed heifers at mating will produce more milk in the first lactation. Early turnout to grass in the spring will encourage the heifers to cycle regularly and therefore can be synchronised to be mated in a designated time frame, so that they calve down in a similar time frame, preferably at the beginning of the calving season, so that bullying in the herd is reduced to a low level. Conception rates for heifers should be around 70+%.

Again, routine vaccination and dosing programmes should be carried out during the second summer at grass. A daily liveweight gain of 0.67 kg/day should be easily achievable at grass but this will depend on the prevailing conditions such as grass quantity and quality, etc.

 

Calving: 

During the second housing period, the heifers will be approaching calving. The aim is that they achieve 90% of their mature bodyweight at calving, approximately 540 kg. The silage/forage should be of good quality, but it is important to not let them get too fat (BCS> 3.25).  It is recommended that the replacement heifer is fed 1-2 kg of concentrates in the last two weeks of pregnancy to help her through the calving event. In fact, the nutrient requirement in the last month of pregnancy is higher for the replacement heifer than it is for the mature cow (8.52ufl, 733g PDI/day for the heifer compared to 8.1ufl, 626g PDI/day for the mature cow).

Calf resting in bed of straw

Post Calving: 

Post calving, the heifer must be managed carefully to help her recover from calving. This involves reducing stress by a gradual introduction to the herd, once a day milking for about 10 days, a gradual increase of concentrate intake as well as looking out for any metabolic disorders and infections that might occur.

 

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Sustainable farming solutions

Author: John Bass – Business Development Manager 

 

The agriculture sector is under increased scrutiny year on year to become more economically efficient, while increasing our environmental sustainability. We are all seeing the forthcoming changes in fertiliser allowances and slurry spreading restraints, and with this, it is more important now than ever before to dedicate time to our decision making on farm.

This begins with the basics of addressing soil issues and imbalances with lime and soil pH, closely followed by nutrient balances, crop rotation, cover cropping and grass reseeding in order to maximise crop and grass yield within the ever-increasing fertiliser and chemical constraints.

 

Legumes and Brassicas:

There has been a big increase in legume and brassica crops such as beans and oilseed rape within rotations in the last number of years as well as oats. The crops are not only a good option for spreading workloads, but they also act as a valuable contribution to soil health, fertility and condition.

Non-cereal crops are often looked upon as non-profitable crops, but this is often not the case. In fact, crop yields in the rotation following this break are enhanced due to improved soil fertility and reduced pest and disease burdens in the field. As our portfolio of chemicals is reducing dramatically, integrated pest management becomes more important year on year.

 

Brassica crop

 

Fertiliser Usage:

Fertiliser usage is also becoming increasingly important and more emphasis needs to go into soil sampling to increase the response we get from our fertiliser but also to reduce the risk of losses and keep our environmental impact down. As farmers, we can become more sustainable without cutting our inputs or production through these simple steps:

 

  • Addressing soil pH levels with a focus on calcium: magnesium ratios which greatly improves nutrient availability and uptake, especially nitrogen use efficiency within the plant.
  • Applying fertiliser at the right time to maximise uptake and meet growth demands.
  • Applying certain nutrients when needed such as Phosphorus (P) early in the season and Potassium (K) later in both grass and tillage systems.
  • Monitoring grass growth to plan fertiliser rotations rather than blanket spreading or following stock when not always warranted.
  • Availing of GPS systems in order to minimise wastage on overlaps and checking spread patterns to ensure even application.
  • This year, in some cases, it has been better value to spread Nitrogen (N) based compounds rather than straight N or Urea, while better grass growths have been aided by the little and often application of P and K.
  • Cover cropping to recycle nutrients and condition soil in order to maximise crop yields and reduce diesel consumption and wear and tear.
  • Maintaining buffer zones to avoid water contamination.
  • Using aids such as sulphur and seaweed additives in fertiliser such as SUPERCAN over straight CAN or going a step further and using one of the new products from the Target Fertilisers Terra Range. This aids nitrogen uptake and use efficiency, making it a valuable tool especially in grass systems where derogation is inhibiting N and P usage.

For more information, download the Target Fertilisers Terra Range.

Picture of Terra Range flyer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are all aware of the looming changes to CAP and the impacts this may have on our SFP going forward. This is going to put increased pressure on the sector as a whole. If we as an industry can be more efficient now, it may increase our chances of fighting towards keeping our payments as we know them and prove that as a nation, we produce food more sustainably than most places in the world.

 

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Technical Crop Update: Summer 2021

Author: George Blackburn, Sales Manager  

 

As another crop protection season draws to a close, our attention now turns towards harvest and making assessments of the current condition of crops.

Due to the prolonged cold spells and big fluctuations between day and night-time temperatures, 2021 has been one of the most difficult and challenging seasons for crop protection and particularly spraying itself. The spring began and stayed cold well into April, making herbicide and growth regulation particularly difficult on some of the winter crops, especially oats. It also contributed to reduced efficacy of chemistry and very late germination of weeds post-application of contact herbicides.

Grass weeds were a particular challenge in winter cereals, with Sterile Brome beginning to rear its head in winter barley again, something that has not been an issue in recent seasons. Grass weeds like Brome, Canary Grass, Annual Meadow Grass and Wild Oats are providing an agronomic challenge that requires immediate attention and more stringent management protocols.

The addition of some new chemistry to the toolbox on wheat this year proved a saving grace as many spray intervals were delayed later. That said, the new actives in Questar and Revystar appear to have performed very well in the field, with Septoria control very satisfactory.

 

Winter Wheat:

wheat

The two main winter wheat varieties sown by customers were Graham and Costello and both have been performed well on most agronomic characteristics such as disease and especially Septoria and Yellow Rust.

The 2021 season has suited wheat as the prolonged cold spell prevented too much Septoria inoculum building up in the base of crops and transferring up the canopy when the rain came in May. The slow spring also allowed for steady canopy development, which is ideal for yield formation and crops never turned into the dreaded “silage” stage which can happen with rapid growth in early April. Wheat seems to have a very good grain set with the cold spring setting an extra grain or two on the ear. Crops flowered a week later than normal but the timing was ideal as it missed most of the heavy rain which can be a major source of Fusarium inoculum at flowering.

Crops have a lot of potential, and provided they don’t run out of moisture, bumper yields could be recorded. One lesson we did learn this year is the early sowing in difficult or heavy land is a must and outweighs the risk of BYDV to ensure proper establishment. Graham seems to be suitable for early drilling and is definitely something to bear in mind for the upcoming autumn campaign.

Spring Barley:

There has been huge variation in sowing date and soil type for our flagship crop, barley. Crops sown in March that had enough sap to push on once germinated have handled the cold and subsequent wet conditions that came afterwards. Crops sowed earlier, tillered out and developed a good canopy which allowed them to handle some of the heavy rainfall in mid-May.

Many barley crops have faced challenges this year in terms of establishment, weed and disease control. Crops that were not as advanced and may have had some underlying compaction or soil fertility issues, especially on headlands, have suffered badly. The heavy rain and easterly wind stressed crops to the point where tillers were aborted and growth was stunted to an extent that yield will be compromised.

Despite this, the story is largely a positive one as there are some fantastic crops out there, which could produce yields from 2-4 tonne to the acre this harvest and everywhere in between. Growers that did good quality work in the spring and minded crops well in terms of plant nutrition and good disease control programmes will be rewarded.

Spring barley field

 

Winter Barley:

Winter barley is coming to the end of grain fill and looks to have more potential than looked possible earlier in the season. Grain numbers are good per ear and crops are clean of disease and look to be filling well. The cold spring did not suit winter barley, as many crops never bulked up to the extent that they usually do.

The 6 rows look to have an edge in terms of vigour and seem to have coped with difficult growing conditions better as would be expected. The new 6-row conventional variety, Joyau is performing particularly well in the field and it will be interesting to see how it performs over the weighbridge in 4-5 weeks’ time. The BYDV tolerant gene could be a breakthrough for winter barley growers in the years ahead, however, grain quality must stack up with established varieties. It won’t matter how good it is against BYDV if it cannot meet the spec requirements of end-users.

2-row barley crops struggled in the cold spring, however, they look to be making a late run. The variety, Valerie looks to be performing particularly well, with a very good head on it.

 

Spring Beans:

beans

Beans have relished the moisture in May and are in stark contrast to the sad drought-stricken crops in May 2020. Crops are lush, vibrant and look to have potential. First fungicides have been applied and rotation is again flagging up as a key determinant to disease pressure risk. Any crop sowed back to beans in the last 5 years as opposed to the ideal 1 in 7, is showing increased levels of downy mildew, which is something to keep an eye on in the future.

 

Winter and Spring Oats:

Field of winter oats

Both winter and spring oats look to be very well and have good, sized panicles. The cool weather suits oats crops and those that received good programmes should do well.

A lot of winter oat crops have suffered from a combination of frost and growth regulator damage around the country but luckily we don’t appear to have any of these issues with our grower base. Attention to spray timings and good foliar nutrition paid off on oats this year no doubt.

 

Oilseed Rape:

oilseed rape

Oilseed rape has a good pod set after a very long flowering period. Rape could be an attractive option for autumn 2021 as forward prices are attractive and the crop provides an excellent break option.

Rape will allow you to get on top of problem grass weeds in fields that are exhibiting resistance or enhanced metabolism to standard chemical treatments for grass weed control in winter and spring cereals. Propyzmaide (Kerb) found in Kerb and Astrokerb has no known resistance to grass weeds and could become a key IPM strategy for weed control in future.

Rape also offers an opportunity to spread the workload at harvest and with the new straw chopping scheme, growers may find it easier to get it established in a timely fashion.

 

Summary:

In summary, crops look to be good on the whole and with harvest prices looking promising, I wish all our growers a successful and safe harvest and would like to thank them for their support throughout the year.

 

Note for growers:

The Cooney Furlong Grain Company will be purchasing food grade barley this year with premiums paid on certain varieties this harvest. If you have potential food grade barley, we request that you do not spray a crop of spring barley with glyphosate. Read more here. 

 

Further Information: 

To view more articles from our summer newsletter, please click here.

Cooney Furlong install Solar PV Panels

The Cooney Furlong Grain Company install Solar Photovoltaic (PV) in Wexford Town and Country Store

Leading agribusiness, The Cooney Furlong Grain Company installs innovate Solar Photovoltaic (PV) in their Town and Country Store, in Drinagh, Wexford.

The official commissioning of the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels, took place Wednesday’s 21st April with both ESB Networks and Solar Electric on site.

This installation will harness solar energy and convert it into usable power for the Wexford premises, reducing reliance on the national grid and decreasing the company’s carbon footprint.

The south facing pitched roof was identified as the most suitable site for the 33.75kWp PV system which consists of 90 individual 375Wp Trina Solar Modules, connected to 2 no. SMA 3 phase, dual MPPT inverter and mounted on a German manufactured pitched roof mounting system. This was specifically designed for the proposed trapezoidal structure over the main offices of The Cooney Furlong Town and Country Store.

As part of the project, an online monitoring solution called a Sunny Portal is on display in the Town and Country store in Drinagh, this shows both production and consumption in real time, but also stores historical data for instant review or for future download.

Maeve Furlong, Purchasing Manager, The Cooney Furlong Grain Company says, ‘we are delighted to be able to support local on this project by working with Solar Electric. The installation of the Solar PV panels is one of several steps we are taking across our business group to invest in sustainable solutions.

Des Doyle, Accounts Manager, The Cooney Furlong Grain Company who was instrumental in the project roll out, commented ‘with grain assembly, drying and storage at the core of our business, the aim of this project is to improve our green rating, reduce our carbon offset but also protect against energy price increases and reduce running costs. The panels are expected to generate enough electricity affording a return on investment within 5 years.’

Tom Foley, Sales & Operations Director, Solar Electric said, ‘as a Wexford company, we’re delighted to be the chosen supplier by The Cooney Furlong Grain Company and involved in the installation of the first large Solar Photovoltaic (PV) project within the group. We produced an optimal design, to maximise the company’s electricity demands, roof space and site conditions.’

Maeve concludes, ‘it is our intention to implement this positive initiative across all our other business locations which will further decrease our reliance on traditional sources of energy. As a business we are committed to investing in sustainable and environmental solutions to meet the requirements of the government’s climate action plan and enhance the agricultural landscape in Ireland.’

winter crop

Winter Crop – Technical update spring 2021

Author: George Blackburn – Sales Manager 

Key management decisions regarding fertiliser and growth regulation in the early stages of the spring can have a major bearing on a crops final yield potential, especially winter barley. There is a marked increase in the overall acreage of winter cereals as sowing conditions were good in the early part of autumn 2020. The earlier drilled crops have better establishment without question and many did receive an autumn aphicide. Those that took the gamble of sowing earlier into better conditions seem to have been rewarded so far but time will tell on this.

Winter Barley

Winter barley crops are looking well in general and are well established with good plant count levels. Most were sowed before conditions got difficult in the autumn and have come through a wet winter in good condition. Any crops that have not received any Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) will require an application before early March as soon as conditions allow. Crops that received no autumn P and K will start to show deficiencies especially for when temperatures pick up and growth kicks in. Check your soil samples and tailor NPK compounds accordingly. Depending on soil indexes, winter barley crops need 30-35 units of P and 100 Units of K. 4 bags /acre of 10-8-25+S. Aim to have 75% of nitrogen out on winter barley by 20th of March. Disease levels are low, therefore growth regulation and tillering will be the focus of early chemical applications.

Winter Wheat

Winter wheat crops are generally good but there is some variation out in the fields. Crops sowed earlier that are well established are in good condition, with excellent plant stands. Crops sowed later into difficult seedbeds, especially after potatoes or fodder, beet have struggled to establish. The wet weather in the winter has taken its toll on these crops and they have also suffered a certain amount of slug damage in places. Chopped bean straw has also proven to be a suitable host for slugs and a few winter wheat crops after beans have had to be treated with slug pellets. Many crops after beans have a lot of bean volunteers coming through but these will be easily dealt with it in the spring and are serving a useful purpose, allowing water to infiltrate into soil down along its roots.

Overall, crops are generally good and winter wheat has an amazing ability to compensate even for sub- optimal plant stands come harvest , so I would be reluctant to tear up any crops, unless they have large areas missing completely. A little and often approach to Nitrogen (N) will help to maintain and produce tillers, allowing the crop to fill in. A notable attribute of Graham.  Aim to have balance of P and K out on wheat by mid-March. Apply accordingly to soil sample requirements. Aim to have the first main split of N on by the first week of April, and the final split on by the first week of May. The aim with wheat is not to have too big a canopy too early in the crop as this presents problems for growth regulation and disease control, particularly Septoria Tritici.

Winter Oats

There is a nice amount of winter oats in the ground and all have established well in general. The two varieties sown are Isabel and Husky, both spring varieties sowed in the autumn. As a result, crops are quite forward owing to the reasonably mild winter. Most crops are fine but some in more coastal milder areas are a touch forward. These crops will need careful attention in terms of growth regulation and rust control, especially in coastal areas in South Wexford. Crops will need to get their NPKS requirements by the middle of March with a blend such as 10-5-25 + S, which is ideal for winter oats at 4 bags/Acre.

Winter Oilseed Rape 

The acreage of oilseed rape is not huge this year but any crops that are planted are in very good condition. Most were sowed later than usual in the autumn, with most sowed the first week of September. All crops received some P at planting, which has made a big difference to rooting and overall establishment. Crops are even with good green area indexes. All crops have been treated with a fungicide for light leaf spot in the autumn and with Kerb (propyzamide) for grass weed control. Aim to get potash out on rape by mid-March, with 100-110 units. Rape has a high requirement for sulphur so the first main split of N should include ASN (26%N 15% S), with further applications of sulcan. Aim to apply the last 40-50 units of N on rape at the latest possible time, to ensure that the fertiliser spreader can physically travel through the crop.

 

Further Information: 

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Fertiliser considerations to maximise Nutrient Use Efficiency

Author: Philip Kennedy – Area Manager (New Ross) 

To maximise the efficient use of our land, organic and chemical fertilisers is something that farmers must strive to achieve. In doing so, there are a number of factors that we must take into account. When growing any crop, it is critical to ensure that the soil pH is at the correct level. The optimum soil pH is 6.3 for grassland, preferably with 60-70% calcium and 10-20% magnesium.

Agri Lime  – the forgotten fertiliser

Lime is often a forgotten fertiliser that can greatly impact soil fertility. There is not a one size fits all when it comes to lime, therefore we must choose the correct lime to suit our soil type. In general, calcium lime is the only type required in Wexford due to the high levels of magnesium in soils. Remember; if you are at Index 4 for magnesium, that is as far as the scale goes. You could be index 6 or 8 if the scale were to continue, therefore, do not use dolomitic lime. Having the correct type of lime and pH for your soil will make your Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) fertiliser work far more efficiently and can release up to 80kg/Ha organic N.

Know your off-takes (P – Phosphorous, K – Potassium & S – Sulphur) 

When cutting grass silage, we must remember that each tonne of grass DM per ha will remove 4kg/HA of P (3.2 units/ac) and 25kg/ha of K (20units/ac). Within a grazing situation, these nutrients are recycled and replaced from the animal’s through animal manure.  Sulphur requirements will depend on your soil type. Light soils will leach sulphur out more than heavy soils. As a rule of thumb, match your P requirements to your S requirements. Avoid spreading large quantities of S during the breeding season in order not to lock up selenium and iodine. Smaller quantities can be spread, however if you need ASN (16N 14S) Kieserite (15Mg 20S) or Calcium Sulphate (33 CA 22S), it is recommended to wait until after the breeding season as these products contain high levels of sulphur.

Slurry Nutrient Values 

Slurry is an important source of organic fertilisation; therefore, it is important that we do not underestimate the slurry values. The typical nutrient value of a 7% DM meal feed cattle slurry per 1,000 gallons per acre, is 6N, 5P and 30K. However, when using a 3.5% DM slurry (this is a more accurate figure as we must take dairy washings and added water into account when using Low Emission Slurry Spreading), these nutrient values drop to 5N, 3P and 15K. Nitrogen efficiency in slurry is variable and depends on the method of application and the prevailing weather conditions. Warm dry weather combined with a splash plate application will lead to most of the N being lost into the atmosphere. When we talk about organic fertilisers, we must bear in mind that cutting grass silage with a low index for P and K will equate to lower slurry P and K values.

Grazing

Total NPKS requirements will depend on your stocking rate and how much grass is required. To give an example, a stocking rate of 210kg organic N per ha will require circa, 100kg N, 9kg P and 10kg K per Ha more than a stocking rate in the 130 to 170 kg organic N per ha bracket. The below figures are given for an average stocking rate.

 

Phosphorus and potassium table

 

As the above table shows, continued soil analysis is vital in order to use fertilisers in the most cost-efficient way possible. P requirements are high in the spring, therefore, half your P requirements should be applied in spring with a little and often approach being taken throughout the remainder of the grazing season.

 

Due to the fact that we get luxury uptake of K in the spring, and in order to prevent cow health issues such as grass tetany, it is best to avoid large K applications in early season. Instead, it is best to build soil K levels later in the grazing season. Applying larger K applications can be useful at certain times of the year to reduce drought stress in crops during the summer months. For example, using the likes of an 18-6-12+S product on in early to mid-May will help maximise grass quality and reduce stem production due to drought. For low index K fields, spreading a compound such as 24-2.5-10+s during the summer months can be a useful way of applying the required amount.

Silage 

A reasonable heavy crop of first cut silage will have 5 tonne of DM per ha, which roughly equates to 10 tonne of fresh grass per acre. On an index 3 P 3K soil, this will remove 20kg per ha p (16 units per acre) and 125kg per ha K (100 units per acre). For index 2 P, we must add 10kg P per ha (8units/ac) and for index 1, we must add 20kg P (16units/ac) per cut. For index 2 K, we must add 30kg/Ha (24 units/ac) and for index 1 we must add 60kg/Ha (48 units/ac) K.

 

Farmers are looking for better quality forage now and graze silage in early spring and still cut their crop in late May. For this system, 100kg N/Ha (80 units/ac) 20kg p (16 units/ac) 100kg K/Ha (80 units/ac) and 20kg/Ha S (16 units/ac) should be applied between slurry and chemical fertiliser. In the event of low index soils, the P can be addressed for the crop, however if large amounts of K are required, it is best to apply some of this in the autumn of the previous year. This will eliminate your silage being too high in K and causing hypocalcaemia in freshly calved cows. High K silage does not affect beef cattle or lactating cows. Muriate of potash 0-0-50 can be applied even in the closed period and is a good way of addressing low index k soils. Second and third cuts will also require 25kg N 4kg P 25kg K and 4kg S per ton of DM removed. When cutting out heavy paddocks, do not forget to replace the P and K removed. Applying a product like 15-3-20+S at 2-2.5 bags per acre should maintain your index in this situation. Alternatively; 2000 gallons/acre of slurry can replace the nutrients removed.

 

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