Seed Selection and Production

As a co-operative with our own local seed production and links with the largest seed breeders in Europe, we continually invest significant resource to ensure the most suitable varieties are available to our customers for Northern Irish conditions. This is further supported following the 50% acquisition of Drummonds, with varieties trialled at our research farm in Drogheda, ensuring only the most suitable varieties are placed onto the local market. Through the Morton’s brand you can be sure you are purchasing quality seed with Morton’s seeds recognised as a high-quality product since 1856.

Working with local growers, varieties of cereal are selected for production, with the multiplication of seed carried out on partner farms. DAERA and our own agronomists carry out field inspections at critical points through the season checking for weeds, and disease. Once harvested seed is dried and delivered to the seed plant, where it is cleaned, dressed, packed and certified. Local seed meets some of the highest standards worldwide for certified seed, having a zero tolerance for wild oats.

Our seed plant provides flexibility, fast turnaround and the capability to service individual grower needs with respect to seed dressings, pack sizes and delivery direct to farm.

The cereal section of this handbook provide variety information and characteristics to help in the decision making process, with respect to the selection of varieties best suited to your business.

Agronomy Services

Our team of agronomists (page 4) who provide province wide service are fully trained and BASIS/FACTS registered, ensuring advice provided is not only proportionate to need but also compliant with DAERA and Quality assurance schemes.

Fane Valley provides ‘full line’ agronomy or a bespoke package depending upon your requirements.

Agronomy services include:

• Soil sampling.

• Nutrient application plans.

• Crop rotation planning.

• Variety selection.

• Pesticide recommendations (Muddy Boots).

• Tailored nutrition with fertiliser and trace elements.

• Harvest advice.