Soils Drying in South & Southeast

Met Éireann’s latest farming forecast highlights improving drying conditions for farmers this week, with moderate to good drying expected on Sunday after early rain clears, aside from a few scattered showers. Conditions will improve further on Tuesday and Wednesday as high pressure builds from the south.

Spraying Opportunities

Farmers looking to spray will see better opportunities mainly on Tuesday and temporarily on Wednesday, thanks to the improving weather. Outside these periods, conditions will remain more limited for spraying due to variable moisture and occasional showers.

Field Conditions

Currently, most soils across the country are trafficable. Soil moisture deficits (SMDs) range from 5mm to 40mm, with the driest conditions in the south and southeast, which could lead to some restriction in grass and crop growth. In contrast, parts of the north are wetter, with some poorly drained soils close to saturation.

Over the next few days, soil moisture deficits are expected to increase particularly in the south and southeast, potentially further limiting growth. However, in northern, northwestern, and far southwestern areas, soils may become saturated or even waterlogged as moisture builds.

Blight Alert

Farmers should be vigilant as weather conditions favourable to the spread of potato blight are forecasted for parts of Munster, Connacht, and western Ulster from Saturday evening (2nd August) into Sunday afternoon (3rd August). Appropriate precautions and monitoring are advised to protect vulnerable crops.