September 3, 2008

Large strides made in UK wheat harvest amid rains

UK farmers have harvested anywhere from 50 to 75 percent of the wheat crop, having taken advantage of last week's favourable weather, traders and agronomists said.

However, the onset of rain and cooler temperatures means delays are again on the cards.

"There was a lot of harvest activity last week, allowing farmers in the south and east to catch up and make good progress," said Susan Twining, senior consultant for ADAS Sustainable Crop Management.

Twining estimated about 60 to 70 percent of the crop had been harvested by Monday, but a couple of trade estimates were closer to 75 percent. Still, the National Farmers' Union of England and Wales gave a lower estimate of around 50 percent.

"There is still lots to do in the North, but they are cracking on okay," Richard Overthrow, an advisor with The Arable Group, said.

Rains and cool temperatures in August put the pace of harvesting well behind schedule, which raised some quality concerns. Rain on ripe wheat can reduce attributes needed for baking.

"Most reports suggest that there has not been a large decline in quality and with the remaining crops only just ready for harvest there is no expectation that these will be any worse," Twining said.