Ian Branstone is combining today (1 September) at Bourton Hill Farm, Bourton-on-Water, Gloucestershire, but wheat quality has deteriorated.

“We will hopefully be finished in two days’ time,” he said.  

“Yields have been massively inconsistent – in this one field the meter is ranging from 11t/ha (4.5t/acre) to 6t/ha (2.4t/acre), where it is heavy at the bottom and brashy on the top of the hill.”

So far the Einstein had averaged 7.75t/ha (3.1t/acre) – well down on last year’s exceptional 10t/ha (4t/acre).

“There is the odd sprouted grain now. We also have one block of Cordiale to do, which will be no good at all.”

Tipple spring barley had yielded well at 7t/ha (2.8t/acre), with low nitrogen and good germination.

And oilseed rape was very pleasing, averaging 4.4t/ha (1.8t/acre), with not much to pick between Castille and Cabernet.

“We did have one block of Cabernet on virgin rapeseed land, which was phenomenal, yielding 5t/ha (2t/acre).”

Crop: Winter wheat
Variety: Einstein
Area: 75ha (185 acres)
Yield: 7.75t/ha (3.1t/acre)

Crop: Oilseed rape
Varieties: Cabernet and Castille
Yield: 4.4t/ha (1.8t/acre)

Crop: Spring barley
Variety: Tipple
Yield: 7t/ha (2.8t/acre)