Teagasc: 2011 produced some of the highest cereal yields on record

Ireland has enjoyed high cereal yields over the last decade, with the highest average wheat and second highest average barley yields in the world, according to Teagasc research.

Teagasc head of crops science John Spink told those attending the Teagasc National Tillage Conference in Kilkenny that 2011 produced some of the highest yields on record, with an average increase of 13% on 2010 yields. This result was particularly surprising, given the record years that preceded.

Mr Spink said: “Favourable weather conditions in the spring resulted in good leaf and tiller formation, resulting in increased crop canopy sizes and ear numbers. This early spring growth was particularly important for spring barley.