Torrential rain was not causing problems for Andy Pendry in Kent today (24 July), as he had finished combining rape and was now waiting for wheat to ripen.

“The rape did very well – it’s been our best year,” he said.

Over a weighbridge at Burden Brothers’ Old Rides Farm, Eastchurch, the 39ha (96 acres) of Flash ranged from 4.6t to 5.1t/ha (1.9-2.1t/acre), while the 79ha (195 acres) of Castille yielded 3.7-4.7t/ha (1.5-1.9t/ha).

“It flowered for such a long time, and we are learning with lower seed rates and decent seedbeds,” said Mr Pendry.

Although he replaced poor patches of Castille with mustard seed, he was tempted to plant Flash across the whole farm this autumn.

Most people had nearly finished oilseed rape in the area, he added. Wheat at the farm would be ready by the middle of next week.

“It looks good – it won’t be poor, but won’t be as good as it could have been.”

Crop: Oilseed rape
Variety: Flash
Area: 39ha (96 acres)
Yield: 4.6-5.1t/ha (1.9-2.1t/acre)

Variety: Castille
Area: 79ha (195 acres)
Yield: 3.7-4.7 t/ha (1.5-1.9t/acre)