Frank Thomson is combining spring barley at Burnside of Tynet, Clochan, Morayshire, today (6 September).

“It is very windy today and the spring barley had come very quickly with the better weather – we have caught up apace.”

Yields were reasonable, with Concerto topping 6.2t/ha (2.5t/acre) and Forensic nearing that.

But Optic was disappointing, particularly on exposed and light land, where it had brackled, averaging 5.6t/ha (2.25t/acre).

“Quality has been outstanding though, with low nitrogens and screenings – we are delighted.”

Although some wheat had started to be cut in the area, Mr Thomson was yet to start his.

He still had about 80ha (200 acres) of spring barley, the same of wheat, and about 40ha (100 acres) of spring oilseed rape to cut.

“It will be some time before we’re taking a holiday.”

Crop: Spring barley
Varieties: Concerto and Forensic
Yield: 6.2t/ha (2.5t/acre)

Variety: Optic
Yield: 5.6t/ha (2.25t/acre)