Ground conditions: Most growers indicate that their 2019 planting season is now over. This is certainly the case in areas that have received over 120mm so far in November. Indeed, much of the recent planting across parts of north Leinster is being questioned as many crops have been under water for much of the time since sowing. Many now fear that these crops may have very poor establishment.

Some growers with a lot of work done are now cleaning down machines but others still hope to get a planting opportunity sometime before the end of February. This is partly because they have seed on hand and also partly because there would not be enough spring wheat seed available for land that does not particularly suit spring barley.

While patchiness seems inevitable, its impact can only be judged in spring when the extent of damage can be assessed.

Further planting: Land is now so wet on the heavier soils, where there is still so much to do, it is unlikely that it will be dry enough to work in November. Traditionally we did not plant in December, with January the favoured month for any remaining planting. December is generally a dormant month and January is closer to the growing season.

The risk of crow attack has really dented that option, unless there could be a lot of local planting to dilute attacks. And with the way winter is shaping up, it seems likely that crows could be quite hungry in the months ahead.

With most or all of the easier land already planted, it would take an untypically dry spell over winter to enable further planting. Similar difficulties are being experienced across the water and on parts of the continent. Still, one should not consider planting now unless you get good planting conditions, both in the seedbed and also below.

High seed rates should not be used to compensate for poor seedbeds – you will still have to chase off crows and slugs at additional cost. While these risks are everywhere, they may be less severe further south.

Soil temperatures are now generally below 5°C in the tillage areas so crops will be very slow to emerge.

Pests: Crows have become increasingly active and short days combined with lower temperatures could mean that activity will be intensified where they attack.

Slugs are also visibly active but it seems that they are not a problem in every field, at least not for the moment. Where grazing is evident there may be need for treatment but this could be very difficult. Keep an eye out for other problems like rabbits and rat or mouse damage close to hedges.

Aphids: In general crops emerged in October carry some level of BYDV risk and an aphicide is advised. However, this may not be possible in some fields.