Farm Diary

WHAT a difference a week makes! I have said that a few times over the last year or two, and here we are again with a farm that is so different to a week ago.

Most of the cows are back in due to almost four inches of rain in under a week turning the farm into a quagmire. The good work on the cow tracks with the vibra-roller has been undone; the fields at the top of the farm, where huge covers were being grazed have been abandoned as they are under water!

I have had to rethink my strategy, as grazing even bigger covers in these conditions was not possible, and we will cut and bale the last remaining few acres as and when conditions allow.

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On the bright side (there is always a bright side), silage aftermaths have shot out of the ground and can be grazed 21 days after cutting, the maize has benefited from the large 'drink' of water and warmer nights, and the fertilizer, slurry and dirty water applied in the dry weather has been washed in nicely by the rain.

Tracks, gateways, and sheltered areas under the trees are all very muddy, but will recover swiftly as soon as the sun comes out. The forecast as I write does not look good, but as long as we do not have any more torrential downpours we should be alright.

Milk prices have continued to rise slowly in May, which is incredible considering that this is when peak production takes place and we are usually hammered on price. This time it is different, very different. Supply is low, and buyers are very worried indeed.

For full feature see West Sussex Gazette June 4

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