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Wheat yields appear more variable than barley and oilseed rape, according to latest reports.

As wheat harvest gets underway in earnest across many areas, some growers are pleased with results so far, while others have been disappointed.

Martin Boulden in Kent was pleased with oilseed rape yields averaging 3.75t/ha, and Lioness’ “outstanding” results of 5t/ha. Claire winter wheat yielded 10t/ha at 15.5% moisture, with good quality.

Graham Bunn in Norfolk was very happy with 185ha of Pearl winter barley all meeting malting standards and with low screenings. With average winter barley yields of 6.9t/ha, Mr Bunn was pleased.

The average yields of Robert Maylam’s oilseed rape in Kent were better than he had anticipated. He was not expecting huge yields for his Soissons, but the crop was not looking too bad, he said. Mr Maylam had also complained of the “staggering” fuel costs, considering the low prices for the crops.

But, Buckinghamshire farmer Colin Rayner was disappointed with the low protein of Soissons wheat due to insufficient rainfall. He said yields were down on last year, and Hereward wheat had a low bushel weight. He had spent a “frightening” £1600 on fuel in June and July, he added.

Charles Carter on the Essex/Herts border was very disappointed with his wheat yields at under 10t/ha despite the “lovely looking” crop, good protein and good Hagbergs.

See FWi’s Harvest Highlights section for the regional reports in full and more from around the country, updated every day.