John Wilcox is combining wheat today at Batch Acre Hall, Stratford, Staffordshire, with very variable results.

“We’re cutting Gallant at 17.5% moisture, and the first field struggled to yield 5.2t/ha,” he said.

“But this field is doing 7.9-8.6t/ha, and we don’t really know why. The grain had shrivelled up in the first field.

“I think we drilled it too early and it got too far ahead over the winter – the later drilled crops are better. Also, the lighter the land the better the crops have done.”

Cha Cha spring barley performed well, at 5.9t/ha, said Mr Wilcox. “We were quite pleased with that.”

Cassia winter barley was also very good, at over 7.4t/ha, with Expower oilseed rape averaging 3.7t/ha. “It’s just the wheat that has been variable.

“That said, we did the worst field first so it should get better. The bit we’re cutting today was grown after potatoes, and it’s doing well.

“However, it’s coming off slowly, at 17-18% moisture, so we’re going to have a big job to dry it.”

Mr Wilcox was awaiting sample results, and was unsure whether the wheat would make the grade.

“I spoke to a haulier the other day who said that for every five loads they’re taking in, three are being rejected.”

Crop: Winter wheat
Variety: Gallant
Yield: 5.2-8.6t/ha

Crop: Spring barley
Variety: Cha Cha
Yield: 5.9t/ha

Crop: Winter barley
Variety: Cassia
Yield: >7.4t/ha

Crop: Oilseed rape
Variety: Expower
Yield: 3.7t/ha