By William Church
The pictures shown show the seasonal face of the Island’s countryside. At a brief glance, it looks as if snow is lying over the land; of course it is not …
as any Islander will know, it is not snow but the plastic covering over recently planted Jersey Royal potatoes. Only 10% of the surface area of the Island crop has been planted so far, due to the wet and waterlogged condition of the fields.
December 2020 was the second wettest since records began in Jersey, and this brings it own challenges to the Jersey farmers who need to get on with planting outdoors from the start of the New Year.
Sodden fields from the December rain have not had a chance to drain as January has been punctuated by showers throughout, and the start of February has not been any easier which has resulted in even slower progress than 2020 that was regarded by many as one of the toughest years. This puts extra pressure on the farmers.
When planting is not possible, there is still a stock of seed to grade and stand, but this is an anxious period. Farmers are praying for an easier run, with no drought to follow as was experienced last year
Credit for pictures: William Church
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