Spotlight on spring cereal cropping options After many growers got forced into spring cropping following wash-out autumns in 2019 and 2020, better conditions for establishing winter crops this autumn were a welcome relief. While this will result in less dependence on spring crops in 2022, they remain important to the rotation on many farms, for agronomic, financial and logistical reasons. For those still to decide which crops and/or varieties to sow next spring, Hutchinsons technical manager Dick Neale and national seeds manager David Bouch highlight some options to consider. Spring barley Barley remains the leading spring cropping option in many regions, especially those supplying malting, distilling and animal feed sectors. In recent years spring barley has also become a go-to option in less traditional areas among growers tackling black-grass. “That’s still the situation, especially as there will be some fields that have taken a backwards step for blackgrass control after the difficult conditions we’ve experienced in recent seasons,” Mr Neale says. “If you’re growing spring barley for black-grass control on heavy clay soil, don’t rush out and get a malting contract then apply malting barley principles developed on predominantly light land. For black-grass control, focus on maximising yield and crop competition, which in turn will dilute grain
RSABI encourages people to reach out for support By Chris McVey, RSABI Welfare Manager RSABI’s Welfare Manager Chris McVey is encouraging anyone in the agricultural industry who needs some support to call the RSABI helpline to see how they may be able to help, recognising that this can be a difficult time of year for many people. RSABI provides emotional, practical and financial support to people involved in Scottish agriculture, including farmers, crofters, farm workers and people working in associated industries. Chris McVey, RSABI’s Welfare Manager explains: “January and February can be tough months. For many people the quiet time following the rush of Christmas and New Year can leave them feeling flat. Coupled with the shorter days and potentially bad weather it’s easy to feel fed up, low and unhappy. There could
Chris McVey RSABI Welfare Manager
be more time spent alone, and more time to worry about things. “Our team of helpline staff and volunteers are here to listen if you’re feeling down, or something is on your mind. And you don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis to call us for support. We help people
with all kinds of issues – so no matter how big or small you think the problem is we’re here to listen. “All calls are answered in confidence, and our staff and volunteers are mental health first aid trained. If needed, we can help you to access private counselling and provide grants for this if you can’t afford the cost. Many of our clients have found counselling sessions incredibly helpful. “A lot of our work involves providing practical support – helping people resolve employment issues, access benefits information and debt advice, for example. “And we also offer financial grants if required, often for essential items such as heating or food. “Whatever is on your mind, please don’t hesitate to give us a ring.”
RSABI’s helpline is open every day of the year from 7am to 11pm on 0300 111 4166. Visit www.rsabi.org.uk for more information on support provided.
