Germany: February 15th – “Gülle Silvester” & Fertilizer Restrictions 2024

Farmers across Germany are preparing for what is colloquially known as “Gülle Silvester” – or “Manure New Year’s Eve” – a period that begins on February 16th. This date marks the end of restrictions on the application of nitrogen-containing fertilizers in most agricultural areas. The term, while informal, highlights a significant date in the agricultural calendar.

Understanding the Restrictions and Exceptions

The regulations, outlined in the Nitrataktionsprogramm-Verordnung (NAPV), dictate when such fertilizers can be applied to minimize nitrate pollution. However, there are exceptions even before February 16th. For example, application is already permitted in durum wheat, barley, rapeseed, and crops grown under fleece or foil since February 1st.

Crucially, a complete ban remains in place for uncultivated agricultural land until shortly before spring planting. This aims to prevent nutrient runoff during periods when the land is not actively supporting plant growth.

Weather Conditions and Application Guidelines

Recent wet weather conditions necessitate careful consideration. A general, year-round prohibition applies to areas that are waterlogged, frozen, snow-covered, or flooded. This restriction remains in effect even after the official end of the restriction period. Specific definitions apply:

• Snow-covered: A field is considered snow-covered if less than half of its surface is snow-free at the time of application.
• Frozen: Soils that do not thaw during the day are considered frozen. It’s important to note that thawing soil can also become waterlogged.
• Waterlogged: Soil is considered waterlogged when its capacity to absorb water is exhausted.

If these conditions do not apply, a limit of 60 kilograms of nitrogen per hectare (applied to the field) must be observed on fields that thaw only on the day of application of readily soluble N-fertilizers. As always, the expected yield of the field must also be taken into account.

Proximity to Waterways

Maintaining appropriate distances from bodies of water is a consistent requirement. The NAPV stipulates a 20-meter buffer zone from the top edge of the bank for standing water. On areas with a slope of less than ten percent within this radius, a 10-meter distance is sufficient. For flowing water, the required distance from the top edge of the bank is 10 meters. On areas with less than ten percent slope within 20 meters of the waterway, the distance can be reduced to 3 meters. Steeper slopes may allow for a 5-meter buffer zone if the strip is permanently (living) vegetated.

Regional Variations and Additional Considerations

Farmers participating in the ÖPUL measure “Preventive Groundwater Protection – Arable Land” may face additional, regionally specific restrictions on application deadlines. These are not detailed in the available information.

The “Gülle Silvester” Tradition and Recent Observations

The term “Gülle Silvester” itself reflects a tradition of farmers utilizing this period to spread manure, effectively marking the end of the winter restrictions. Social media platforms, such as TikTok, have documented the practice, with videos showcasing the event in Malle in 2024. A post on Instagram from February 3, 2024, highlights agricultural photography related to the practice.

A “Gülle Silvester Party” was hosted by Bauernclub Halle between January 31st and February 1st, 2024, indicating a cultural aspect associated with this agricultural practice.

It is important for farmers to adhere to these regulations to protect water quality and minimize environmental impact. Careful planning and consideration of weather conditions are essential for responsible fertilizer application.