This January podcast opens with reflections on a wet winter and the importance of patience as crops sit largely dormant. The discussion centres on early-season nutrition decisions, particularly strong caution against applying large, single doses of nitrogen. Instead, the Tim & Nick emphasise “little and often” approaches, prioritising ammonium forms of nitrogen, alongside sulphur, to support plant health, microbial activity and balanced growth. Sulphur is highlighted as critical after wet winters, especially for oilseed rape, with soil and sap testing used to guide decisions rather than calendar dates or sales advice.

The conversation broadens to regenerative principles: farming to context, avoiding blanket recommendations, and recognising differences between UK and overseas systems. Concerns are raised about farm profitability, policy uncertainty, and declining food security, alongside frustration with schemes that risk taking land out of production. The episode closes by reinforcing balance, observation and preparation as the season approaches, rather than rushing inputs onto waterlogged soils.