The Farming Year - May

May is the month in which the attention turns to the silage fields.  Livestock are removed from these fields and fertiliser spread so that 6 weeks of growth can take place before being cut for silage.

Lambs have their tails docked to prevent flies laying eggs in them and maggots emerging that can cause death to the lamb.  Ear notching and tagging takes place so they can be identified throughout their lives.  Many lambs not chosen for breading stock will also be castrated.

Arable farmers continue to spread fertiliser and will apply sprays on a variety of crops, including potatoes, cereals, sugar beets, and peas.

Now that the livestock are out on the fields May is a typical time for their housing to be given a deep clean and continuing repairs to walls and fences take place as and when needed.