Lachie MacLean of Kenovay sowing seed using a ‘basgaid churachd’
Photograph of Lachie MacLean sowing seed using a ‘basgaid churachd’.
Courtesy of Mr George Campbell
Lachie MacLean of Kenovay demonstrates in 2003 how seed was sown using a ‘basgaid churachd’. Sowing was a skilled job and not everyone could produce an even spread of seed. Unlike walking, the right arm is flung out as the right foot goes forward.
Allowance had to be made for the direction of the wind, and the seed was easier to cast if this was at your back. It had to be particularly calm for sowing grass seed as it was so light. Barley, being a heavier seed, was easier to throw
The ground was harrowed before sowing and again afterwards to hide the seed from birds. It was then rolled when the shoots were about two inches high.
Copied colour photograph of Lachie MacLean of Kenovay sowing seed using a sowing basket in 2003.
Lachie MacLean of Kenovay sowing seed using a sowing basket in 2003.