Getting that sinking feeling

He is fairly pleased with yields so far, but quality deterioration in standing and laid crops is a big concern.


“We managed to do some beans yesterday (Aug 26), until the tractor and trailer got stuck, when we knew it was time to stop.”


He has 300 acres of wheat still to do, 15-20 acres of which is laid. “The Consort is sprouting badly, even in crops that have stood,” he explains. “Einstein is looking best of all.”


Mr Bradshaw said yields were above average. But deteriorating quality meant that all remaining wheat would be going into the feed market. Hagbergs were 140-150 last weekend.


He is quite relieved to have sold much of his wheat forward earlier in the year for £70/tonne, but doesn‘t expect to receive much of a quality premium.


He also fears that wet soils during harvest may be damaging prospects for next year.


“It‘s too wet to do anything about soil compaction,” he said.


Rape is normally going into the ground by now, however soil conditions are just too wet he added.

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