Early-sown feed emerges well in Mid North

After three years of below-average rainfall, Mr Neal relied on this year's "solid" start to sow 1350 hectares.

"We do not have a large cropping program, so it is important that each crop type is sown at its optimum sowing time and timely rain has allowed us to do so," he said.

"The greatest story to come out of this year already is early-sown sheep feed - the early rain meant it emerged well and it's up and away.

"Generally we would still be feeding sheep in May, so it's great to see pastures looking so good."

Last year, sporadic rainfall was sufficient enough to sustain Mr Neal's crops but he was pleased that this season's early start had given crops "fantastic" foundation for the year ahead.

"Canola crops have emerged well and wheat was sown into moisture and had follow-up rain during germination," he said.

"This year, we have sown Catapult wheat for the first time, so a well-timed season break will put us in good stead with growing a new variety to replace Trojan wheat in the program.

"So far, everything is pointing to having one of the best starts in years."

But, despite ideal sowing conditions for Mr Neal, securing pre-emergent herbicide has been a challenge.

Mr Neal placed an order for Sakura in February and it arrived this week.

"I have chemicals on-farm before I start sowing but this year, that has not happened," he said.

"We were warned that supply could come under pressure but it has been significant - I have never been waiting for chemicals in May."

Mr Neal planned to use alternative chemical Luximax for the first time on just one paddock, but since supply of Sakura had dried up, it was used across multiple areas.

"It is difficult to make plans - it has become a hand to mouth scenario," he said.

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