As 2015 draws to a close, it is time to start thinking about both the short and long-term goals you have for your business.
Of immediate concern, particularly if there are wet periods in the next few months, is summer weed control. While it might be tempting to cut costs after the disappointments of 2015, there are considerable benefits to be gained from spraying summer weeds. As well as robbing the soil of precious moisture, weeds tie up nitrogen that would potentially add value to next year’s crop.Â
Now is also the time to reflect on the past season and plan for the year ahead. At the 2013 Main Field Day the Afterburners fighter pilots key message was ‘plan, brief, act and de-brief’.Â
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Have you sat down with your agronomist to review what worked and what didn’t? Which crop type yielded the most and why was that? Did earlier sown paddocks perform best? If so how early were they and what was the penalty in late sowing?Â
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Think back and try to recall the best and worst farming decision that you made? (Keep in mind that at the time, it was the best decision possible with all the information that you had). What you would do differently next year?Â
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It is a good idea to ensure that you have all your paddock herbicide records up to date, particularly in the case of group B herbicides where residuals could be a problem.Â
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After your debrief, take a well-earned rest and, if possible, head away from the farm.Â
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