Potato and vegetable growers face mounting drought challenges
Prolonged dry spells are severely straining potato and vegetable producers, threatening both yield and quality. Insights from experts at a national meeting highlight rising costs, water shortages, and potential income risks across Ireland’s key tillage regions.
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Teagasc Agricultural News
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⏱️ 2 min read
Prolonged drought and significant soil moisture deficits are placing immense strain on potato and vegetable growers across Ireland. Speaking at a National Fodder Meeting convened by Minister Martin Heydon TD on 18 August, Teagasc Crops and Potato Specialist Shay Phelan outlined the challenges currently faced by tillage farms.
The 2026 harvest is about 90% complete but yields are disappointing, forecast to fall below two million tonnes, with straw yields only 80-90% of normal levels—likely pushing prices higher. Soil moisture shortfalls, nearing 100mm in key east and south-east regions, are also impacting fodder crops, winter oilseed rape, and cover crop establishment. Beet and maize yields are expected to decline, with beet crops requiring longer growth periods and vulnerable to leaf loss during harvest.
For potato and vegetable producers, the situation is even more precarious. With irrigation costs exceeding €175 per application, many growers face escalating expenses, while some report unreliable water sources necessitating costly water transportation. Crops without irrigation are underperforming severely, risking failure to meet market standards and threatening future incomes. Additional concerns include increased dry matter in potatoes raising harvest losses and bolting in brassica crops. The role of Irish grown grains and catch crops in livestock feed remains vital, though dependent on forthcoming rainfall. For further details, Teagasc presentations from the meeting are available online.
The 2026 harvest is about 90% complete but yields are disappointing, forecast to fall below two million tonnes, with straw yields only 80-90% of normal levels—likely pushing prices higher. Soil moisture shortfalls, nearing 100mm in key east and south-east regions, are also impacting fodder crops, winter oilseed rape, and cover crop establishment. Beet and maize yields are expected to decline, with beet crops requiring longer growth periods and vulnerable to leaf loss during harvest.
For potato and vegetable producers, the situation is even more precarious. With irrigation costs exceeding €175 per application, many growers face escalating expenses, while some report unreliable water sources necessitating costly water transportation. Crops without irrigation are underperforming severely, risking failure to meet market standards and threatening future incomes. Additional concerns include increased dry matter in potatoes raising harvest losses and bolting in brassica crops. The role of Irish grown grains and catch crops in livestock feed remains vital, though dependent on forthcoming rainfall. For further details, Teagasc presentations from the meeting are available online.
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