30 May 2025

Key actions for tillage growers this week

As we reach the end of May, the recent spell of rainfall has been a welcome relief for crops struggling through a dry start to the season. Michael Hennessy shares three key priorities tillage farmers should target in the coming week.

Apply final fungicides to winter wheat

Winter wheat crops are generally looking well, with strong yield potential. In general most crops are very clean, however, septoria is still making appearances, especially in susceptible varieties or where fungicide programmes had gaps. Yellow rust is also more widespread than usual, even in varieties typically considered low-risk, possibly indicating a shift in pathogen strains. 

Now is the time to focus on the head or flowering fungicide, which should be applied at early to mid-flowering. The primary target is fusarium, and timing is crucial as the weather during flowering significantly influences infection risk. Prothioconazole offers moderate fusarium control and is the most cost-effective option—avoid expensive tank mixes which may offer little additional benefit. 

Time final fungicide in spring barley for ramularia control

Spring barley crops are mixed depending on sowing date and soil type. Early-sown crops have fared better through the dry spell, while later crops, particularly on light soils, are showing signs of stress. Recent rain should support recovery, but it also increases the risk of Ramularia, the main disease concern from this point forward. 

For effective control, apply the final fungicide around awn emergence (GS 49–51) rather than waiting until full ear emergence. Research shows that delaying until GS 59 significantly reduces control. Use a mix of azole + SDHI/Strobilurin, along with 1.5L/ha of Folpet, to achieve optimal protection.  

Check for uncontrolled weeds 

Now is a good time to walk crops and look for weeds that survived herbicide applications. If you see healthy weeds beside dead ones, herbicide resistance could be an issue. Teagasc offers free resistance testing, as part of a research project, and growers are encouraged to take advantage of this service. 

Listen to The Tillage Edge, Teagasc’s weekly podcast for tillage farmers.