About this episode

John O’Loughlin discusses fertiliser decisions in dry conditions and the implications of CBAM on farmers.

John O’Loughlin, Head of Sustainability at Grassland Agro, joins Stuart Childs to discuss the impact of CBAM, fertiliser advice in dry conditions and two upcoming farm walks that will be worth attending this July. John first explains the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) which is adding approximately €50/t to urea in 2026, with the potential to rise significantly in future years. While there has been discussion about suspending the charge during periods of high fertiliser prices, he believes this now looks unlikely, meaning farmers should expect CBAM to remain a factor in fertiliser costs. John recommends that farmers measure grass regularly and make decisions based on their own farm’s situation, as drought conditions are varying widely across the country from his perspective and one size won’t fit all in terms of advice. Where soil moisture deficits become severe, nitrogen applications should be reduced or paused, but where growth remains good, protected urea is still a good choice as it will absorb water from the atmosphere. John stresses that potassium (K) and lime are essential for helping grass cope with drought and recover quickly afterwards. John describes K…

People in this episode

Host: Stuart Childs

Guest: John O’Loughlin

Topics covered

• fertiliser management
• drought conditions
• sustainability
• grass growth
• CBAM

Keywords

• fertiliser
• drought
• CBAM
• grass growth
• potassium
• lime

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Grassland Agro, Teagasc, EU

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