Dry soils put squeeze on grass growth

Grass growth remains restricted in many areas as dry soils continue to dominate, particularly in the south and southeast where soil moisture deficits are as high as 71mm.

While all soils are currently trafficable, growth will stay under pressure in the coming days with little change expected until more unsettled weather arrives early next week.

According to the latest data from Met Éireann, soil temperatures are running well above average, ranging from 16.9 to 21.3 degrees over the past week, between 3 and 5.6 degrees higher than normal. Air temperatures are set to dip slightly over the coming week but will remain close to or just above average.

Drying conditions will stay generally good through Sunday with rainfall amounts below normal. From Sunday onwards, more unsettled weather is expected, which could ease moisture deficits and improve growth potential.

Spraying opportunities will be plentiful in the coming days thanks to long dry spells and mostly moderate or lighter winds, though farmers should plan ahead as conditions may become less reliable next week.