Winter barley harvest kicked off on 11 July. This is quite something to be combining so early in July in our neck of the woods. It seems like a false start, as since then we have had 28mm of rain.

Cropping plans are finalised for harvest 2026, with oilseed rape top of the agenda. We have increased our usual area as cereal prices are nothing to get excited about at the moment, but you never know what may happen next.

See also: Why straw removal requires rethink for future nutrient plans

About the author

Annabel Hamilton

Annabel Hamilton farms 1,030ha of arable in the Scottish Borders with her parents. The arable area grows 65% winter and 35% spring crops. She is Basis and Facts qualified and runs a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. The farm finishes more than 300 Limousin cattle a year.  Follow Annabel on Twitter @annabelhami11

Read more articles by Annabel Hamilton

In June, we hosted more than 100 children from our local primary and high school at the farm, in partnership with the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET).

We had three stations set up to immerse the students into the world of agriculture.

I was on the machinery section along with my sister Rosie, who had brought some sheep along.

The RHET did a session on “where your food comes from”, and my brother did the farm safari using a purpose-built trailer which we had been kindly lent for field tours around the cattle.

It was quite a sight watching all the children engaged in the activities, and asking a vast amount of questions. A huge pat on the back for my brother Alisdair who organised it all.

It isn’t an easy visit to host as insurance and health and safety have to play a vital role.

But for some of those children that would have been the first time seeing a sheep, a heifer and a tractor – quite a thought when you think about it.

I am not quite sure of my role over harvest yet. This will be the first time in 17 years that I will not be in full-on harvest mode.

We are very fortunate that we have a great team of people around us that allow us to run like a well-oiled machine. I am sure I will slot in somewhere with Mum looking after baby Arthur when required.

Wishing everyone a safe, enjoyable and rewarding harvest.