The 2025 oilseed rape harvest is shaping up to be one of the most successful in recent history, with UK average yields on track to break the long-standing national record of 3.91t/ha set in 2011.

United Oilseeds is forecasting average yields of 3.95-4.0t/ha this year.

This is down to a combination of improved genetics, reduced cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB) pressure and a favourable growing season.

See also: Harvest set to finish ahead of schedule at Sussex estate

With a harvested area of 227,000ha, that’s a potential crop of nearly 900,000t – 200,000t more than what would have been expected.

United Oilseeds says the uplift alone is worth nearly £100m to the UK economy.

The positive effect is felt well beyond just the farmer. More crop means more haulage, storage, sampling and trade, which is boosting activity across the wider rural economy.

An added 200,000 tonnes equate to nearly 7,000 lorry movements, providing work for technicians and drivers, and which is worth more than £3m to UK hauliers.

James Warner, managing director of United Oilseeds, says the results are a clear sign that OSR is regaining its place as the UK’s leading break crop.

“Growers who have stuck with the crop and given it the attention it deserves are now seeing the benefits. Lower CSFB pressure, strong genetics and consistent agronomy are delivering results,” he said.

This year’s performance also aligns strongly with the goals of United Oilseeds’ OSR Reboot scheme, which include food security, economic growth and biodiversity.

OSR farmgate prices

Numbers are speaking for themselves from a farm businesses perspective.

Farmgate prices presently range from £370 to £420/t, and with many growers seeing gross margins higher than £1,000/ha, OSR is comfortably outperforming other combinable crops in 2025.

OSR top-end yield potential combined with steady prices makes it one of the most financially attractive cropping options this season.

Looking ahead, United Oilseeds and AHDB are encouraging growers to maintain the momentum.

“Our joint CSFB management strategy and ongoing investment in the CSFB Research+ programme show the industry is serious about securing the future of OSR in the UK,” said James.