That’s A-maize-ing!

Words and Photos by TADHG CURTIN

They said it couldn’t be done but history was made in Kilcorney as local farmer, Martin Kelleher harvested nine acres of maize recently.

It was never done in Kilcorney before so the reason for the scepticism was simple. Kilcorney is 236 metres or 774.28 feet above sea level so put simply - we are high up. It is recommended that crops of maize be cultivated on Martin’s father, Con Kelleher observing the harvesting land that does not exceed 1000 feet above sea level so setting a maize crop on an area so high up as Kilcorney was taking a chance. But the gamble paid off. Talking to Martin, he put it down to a number of elements - a southern facing field that was sheltered, good soil, and the summer itself.

There was a few of us that turned up to witness the event both young and old. Gus Murphy, Donoughmore was the contractor tasked with harvesting the crop. The nine acres were picked up in an hour and a half. Martin informed me that it’s usually 20 tonnes per acre so by that estimation, he produced 180 tonnes of maize ration, which he will be feeding to his animals next February.

It was a bit of excitement on a Monday evening but having witnessed the field grow for most of this year, it was nice to see a L-R: Denis O’Riordan, John Duggan, and Der Shea were also looking on. great yield produced. Martin even suggested he might go for it again in 2023. He proved it can be done so we may see those big machines in action again next year!

Tadhg holding corn on the cob.

Martin's father, Con Kelleher observing the harvesting

Some of the locals who stopped by the field to witness the process.

L-R: Denis O'Riordan, John Duggan, and Der Shea were also looking.

Contractor, Gus Murphy in action