Harvest has been very stop-start for Robin Baines in Norfolk who manages 1600ha of combinable crops.

Spring barley is nearly complete in the Norfolk area with “respectable” quality and yields above 6.25t/ha, he said. He said Cocktail was standing well but Optic continued to brackel and yielded less, he noted. Comparing to last year he said the crop is “leaps and bounds better”.

Winter barley is all cut in the local area, with respectable yields above average. Nitrogen levels were low and screenings were not too bad, he said.

A small amount of Durum wheat looked reasonably well.

Mr Baines suggests many farmers are reviewing whether to crop next season due to CAP reforms. He suggested the high fuel prices are also a factor making people reconsider growing crops: “Unless prices firm, there will be a reduction in the area sown.”

• Crop/Variety: Cocktail and Optic spring barley


• Area: Around 325ha (800ac)


• Yield: 6.25t/ha


• Quality: N/A