The first application of fertiliser nitrogen should be applied to winter barley crops across the country now.

This was view firmly expressed by Teagasc tillage specialist, Shay Phelan, at a recent growers’ meeting held in Co. Donegal.

He added that the main application should follow a fortnight later, with the final split applied before the end of this month.

Going for a three-split programme lessens the likelihood of nutrient leaching from the soil.

“Stem elongation takes place, for the most part, during April,” Phelan explained.

The Teagasc representative added that balancing phosphate (P) and potash (K) requirements should be applied in tandem with the first nitrogen split.

The Donegal meeting brought to an end a series of spring tillage seminars and farm walks hosted by Teagasc.

The events provided those in attendance the opportunity to discuss the progress made by winter crops over the past number of months.

Early drilled crops of winter barley are now well advanced with an extra tiller evident on many plants. This is especially the case in southern counties.

Growers should target plant counts of between 1,100 and 1,200 shoots/m² for maximum yield. This recommendation is specific for two-row varieties.

Weed control has been applied to most winter barley crops by this stage. However, some will need a follow up with a ‘tidy-up’ herbicide option.

Fertiliser nitrogen is an important requirement for winter barley crops at this stage. But so is phosphate, particularly on lower index spoils.

Growers should keep a very watchful eye on crop disease levels at the present time. Growers, especially in northern counties are reporting quite high levels of ramularia, particularly in barley crops with high population densities.

Barley following barley represents the highest risk threat, where disease incursion is concerned.

Significantly, 2022 yields can still be used to justify the application of additional nitrogen and phosphate.

The application of plant growth regulators should be delayed until such times as crops are actively growing.

Teagasc is confirming that the risk of Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV) was high in all cereal crops last autumn. This was a direct reflection of the early drilling dates.

Countering this trend was the opportunity for growers to apply an insecticide on newly established crops last November and December.

It is too late to apply an insecticide on winter cereal at this stage.

Slug damage was noted in some winter barley crops over recent weeks. However, no benefit will be gained form spreading pellets at this stage.