Winter barley and wheat areas expanding in Ireland

The area planted with winter barley and winter wheat in Ireland is expected to increase in 2026. The estimates were presented during an industry workshop organized by the Irish Seed Trade Association (ISTA). Participants noted higher seed sales for both crops, indicating an expansion in planted areas this season.

Winter barley acreage is projected to rise by approximately 8,000 hectares, bringing the total area to around 65,500 hectares. Meanwhile, winter wheat area is estimated to have increased by about 3,000 hectares, reaching nearly 63,000 hectares overall. Market representatives attribute the growth to steady demand for grain and improved economic expectations compared to last year.

In contrast, the area under winter oats has dropped significantly. While exact figures are not yet available — as some seed may still be used for spring sowing — interest in the crop has declined sharply. Large stocks of feed oats remain in storage across the country, with limited market demand, dampening growers’ appetite for planting winter oats this season.

Tags: wheat, Ireland, barley