Articles

Diversifying the farm business

Diversifying the farm business Kilkenny sheep farmer, Brian Nicholson joins this episode of the OviCast podcast to talk about the changes to his farm system in recent years. Joining podcast host Ciaran Lynch, Brian describes how he has converted part of his farm over to an organic system. A discussion takes place […]
24 December 2024

The story behind your Christmas turkey

The story behind your Christmas turkey Rebecca Tierney, Poultry Advisor, outlines the historical and cultural significance of turkey in Irish Christmas dinners, and shares insights into the dedication and tradition behind producing the perfect bird for your Christmas dinner. Turkey and ham are the staples of any Irish Christmas dinner. However, turkey […]
24 December 2024

Weather Trends Over the Past 60 Years

Weather Trends Over the Past 60 Years At the Signpost Conference 2024, Mary Curley, Ciara Ryan, and Barry Coonan from Met Éireann discussed the latest insights on Ireland’s climate, revealing key trends in temperature, rainfall and sunshine. Climate long-term averages (LTA), or normals, are the mean or average values of a climate […]
24 December 2024

Get the transition right to set the herd up for success in 2025

Get the transition right to set the herd up for success in 2025 During the dry cow period, there are a number of key pillars to get right to ensure the successful transition of the herd into early lactation, Aisling Claffey, Teagasc Ruminant Nutrition Specialist, tells us more. Body condition score Ensure […]
23 December 2024

The story behind your Christmas potatoes

The story behind your Christmas potatoes Most of the potatoes on Irish tables this Christmas will come from local farms, showcasing the country’s rich agricultural heritage. Shay Phelan explores potato cultivation, popular Christmas varieties, and the thriving local market for this festive staple. Counties such as Meath, Dublin, Louth, Donegal, Cork, and […]
23 December 2024

Reviewing yields with Signpost farmer Tom Barry

Reviewing yields with Signpost farmer Tom Barry After a challenging year, Tom Barry, a Signpost tillage farmer from Co. Cork, takes a look back at the yields obtained on his farm. Tillage farming in 2024 was one of the most challenging years; many of us did two years’ work in one, along […]
23 December 2024

Farm safety during the Christmas holiday period

Farm safety during the Christmas holiday period The Christmas holidays bring a buzz to farms, with family home and friends visiting. Amid the festive hustle, it’s vital to prioritise safety. Francis Bligh, Health & Safety Specialist, shares essential tips to keep you and your farm safe during this busy time. Help with […]
22 December 2024

The story behind your Christmas Brussels Sprouts

The story behind your Christmas Brussels Sprouts Brussels sprouts season is in full swing. With Christmas nearing, growers are working hard to get these classic veggies onto Irish dinner plates. Love them or hate them, sprouts are a holiday staple. William Deasy, Specialised Vegetable Advisor, shares the story behind them. Growing and […]
21 December 2024

Kiss dry turkey goodbye!

Kiss dry turkey goodbye! Say goodbye to dry turkey this Christmas with Chef Maria Harte’s expert tips and resources for a stress-free festive feast. From a comprehensive Christmas Dinner Planner to a Turkey Cooking Time Calculator, everything you need to ensure your turkey steals the show. According to Safefood’s annual survey, 55% […]
21 December 2024

New cost control tool for dairy farmers

New cost control tool for dairy farmers Dairy farmers attending the Teagasc National Dairy Conference were given a first look at a new tool to enable better cost control on their farms. Showcased by Patrick Gowing, Dairy Specialist, and Nora O’Donovan, Dairy Advisor on the Dairygold Joint Programme, the Teagasc Dairy Farm […]
20 December 2024