EU crop yields have been revised downwards following unusually warm and dry weather in much of Europe.
The average total wheat yield has been revised down by 2.4% since May, from 5.93 tonnes per hectare (t/ha) to 5.79 t/ha, although this remains above the 5.73 t/ha five-year average, according to the latest EC Crop Monitoring Report.
While many parts of Europe have been adversely impacted by the weather, conditions for UK winter and spring crops have been described as largely positive in the past six weeks, with development progressing well. Spain has also benefited from good conditions.
UK total wheat yield is now forecast at 8.16 t/ha, which is fractionally below the five-year average.
In contrast, hot conditions and low rainfall in Germany – particularly in the north and east – have taken a toll, with yield now forecast 3.3% below the five-year average. Similar conditions have been reported in areas including Austria, Czech Republic and Romania.
In France, wet and warm weather has raised disease concerns for winter crops.
“With warmer than usual weather forecast for at least the short term in Europe, the focus will continue to be on what effect this may continue to have on yields and, therefore, output,” reported the UK’s Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board.
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