Brett Vale Farming Diary - April 2026
What happened to April showers?
While the workload is certainly easier in good weather, we are now in need of some meaningful rain — and soon! 2026 is beginning to feel a lot like last year. Although some winter crops are in a stronger position thanks to good autumn conditions, the spring crops are starting to struggle, with some yet to emerge as they wait for moisture.
Sugar beet drilling was completed at the beginning of the month in good seedbeds, and getting it all done within a few days suggested a far simpler season ahead than last year. However, just three weeks on, uneven emergence means we are already having to adjust herbicide rates and timings on a field-by-field basis.
Establishment of the spring barley using the new Avatar drill has been encouraging. We held off rolling immediately after drilling due to borderline conditions, but with the dry spell continuing, we have since rolled once the crop had emerged. This can encourage tillering by slightly stressing the plant into producing more shoots, while also pushing stones back into the ground to avoid issues at harvest. Timing remains important, particularly around herbicide and fertiliser applications, to prevent any crop damage.
We have also taken a calculated risk with the final nitrogen application on the wheats. If rain arrives soon, it should prove the right decision. If the dry spell continues, we may wish we had reduced the rates slightly.
April has been a busy month for the sprayers, with wheat receiving two fungicide applications alongside liquid fertiliser. Efficient bowser back-up is key — being able to refill in the field rather than travelling back and forth saves a significant amount of time.
Our maize contractor had some availability last week, so we took the opportunity to apply fertiliser ahead of drilling and begin land preparation. The amount of dust visible gives a clear indication of just how dry conditions have become. The maize will be harvested in September as a whole crop and supplied to a local anaerobic digestion plant for energy production.
Looking ahead, 16th May brings the annual Hadleigh Show, organised by the Hadleigh Farmers Agricultural Association.
It’s always an excellent family day out, and tickets are available via their website: https://www.hadleighshow.co.uk/
Our shareholders and directors have long-standing ties with the show, and to continue that connection we have already been down to give the showground its first cut of the year.
Finally, last weekend saw me take part in the London Marathon — and what a day it was. It’s an incredible event that really restores your faith in humanity, with so many people running for great causes and the level of support from the crowds simply overwhelming.
My family were there cheering me on, and together with the generosity of everyone who has donated, helped carry me over the finish line after a tough four and a bit hours. There is still time to donate if you would like to support the cause.
https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/oliver-pratt
Thank you to everyone who has donated. I've very nearly reached my £2,200 goal. See you next month.
Oliver Pratt, April 2026
Photo Credit: Oliver Pratt