We have been lucky with rain in June, receiving 52mm. This was a little too late for the early maturing wheats, as they have gone downhill fast. The spring wheat has coped with the weather well and, hopefully, if we get a little bit more rain we could get a nice grain fill.

Maize, on the other hand, has loved this weather and I think rather than “knee-high by 4 July” it will be “neck-high”.

It has massive leaves which will capture the sunlight and, hopefully, create big yields. We did plant one field after cutting grass silage, and that is variable with some plants over the knee and others mid-boot. It was always going to be a gamble as conditions were dry when we attempted it.

See also: Why propyzamide use in OSR and beans remains in the balance

About the author

Robin Aird

Arable Farmer Focus writer Robin Aird manages 1,500ha on the north Wiltshire and Gloucestershire border, with a further 160ha on a contract farming agreement. Soils vary from gravel to clay with the majority silty clay loams. The diverse estate has Residential, commercial and events enterprises. He is Basis qualified and advises on other farming businesses.

Contact:

Email: robin.aird@charltonpark.estate

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We foraged the rye during the week of 16 June; yields were on budget, which amazed me as the crop had looked shocking all winter. The stubbles and blackgrass have been sprayed off and we are planting our AHL2 [winter bird food option in the Sustainable Farming Incentive] into it.

Hopefully, we get some moisture to get this growing. I loved the AHL2 last year as it was full of insects during August and September and then alive with birds through the winter.

The first barley moistures in the area were taken this week – 18% was being talked about, so I reckon we could see combines rolling before the end of the month. I know my wheats will be started in July, not that I am proud of that.

The Middle East conflict does not seem to be affecting the markets as you might expect, with crude oil and grain dropping. However, these things can escalate quickly, so volatility could return.

Finally, I wish everyone a safe harvest and, hopefully, it will not yield as badly as we think.