New 'Rye Growers’ Guide' launched at tillage conference
From left: Richie Hackett, Teagasc crops research officer; Professor Frank O’Mara, Teagasc director; and John Spink, head of crops, environment and land use programme, Teagasc at the launch of the new Rye Growers Guide.
The was officially launched by Teagasc at the 2026 National Tillage Conference.
The guide is a comprehensive new resource designed to support Irish tillage farmers in optimising rye production for feed and food as well as for use in the drinks industry.
The guide provides detailed, science-based information on best agronomic practices, crop nutrition, disease control and the role of rye in enhancing crop rotations and reducing input requirements.
It also includes practical insights from Teagasc trials, highlighting rye’s potential as a resilient and climate-smart cereal crop.
The guide is the culmination of a significant body of field research carried out as part of a Department of Agriculture-funded research project entitled ‘Distilling and Brewing — Building Capacity’, which examined the potential of alternative grains for the distilling and brewing sectors.
Speaking at the launch, Teagasc crops research officer Richie Hackett, said: “Rye has emerged as a useful crop option for Irish growers, offering good productivity, strong environmental credentials and economic resilience. This new will help farmers make the most of rye’s potential while supporting Ireland’s ongoing transition toward more sustainable tillage systems.
“The area of rye grown in Ireland has been increasing over the last number of years, but further increases will require increased market demand from end users and getting buy-in from these end users will be key to future expansion of the crop.”
The guide aligns with Teagasc’s broader efforts to promote integrated crop management, soil health and greenhouse gas reduction within Irish agriculture.
Copies of the were made available to conference attendees and will be available from Teagasc Oak Park or local Teagasc advisory offices. Electronic versions of the guide are also available to download from the Teagasc website.
