Photos: Drought-hit maize crops revealed by drone images

Striking drone images from mid-Devon have revealed the severe impact of this summer’s drought on maize crops, with fields showing stark contrasts between areas with moisture and drought-stressed plants.

Captured by Warren Radmore of Aerial Dimensions for Photography and Videography on 25 August, the images show patches of green, healthy maize surrounded by areas that have wilted or died, particularly on east- and south-facing slopes in Hele, Bradninch, and Ellerhayes.

“In all my 13 years of flying drones, I’ve never seen such striking contrast in maize fields before,” said Mr Radmore.

“This highlights just how valuable drones are in monitoring crops, especially in dry periods like this summer.”

See also: Drought brings maize harvest forward three weeks

© Warren Radmore/Aerial Dimensions for Photography and Videography

The drought stress has forced many Devon maize growers to bring forward harvest dates by a month. “Most of these fields are on the drier side and just can’t hold enough moisture,” he said.

One wet day in mid-June helped push crops in mid-Devon above 6ft tall, but in drier parts of the country – especially the Midlands – some maize has struggled to reach 3ft.

“Maize is greedy for moisture,” said Mr Radmore. “An acre can extract 3,000 to 4,000 gallons of water a day from the soil. In return, the crop also increases humidity locally by up to 10%.”

© Warren Radmore/Aerial Dimensions for Photography and Videography

The timing of harvest is crucial for silage quality. Farmers aim to cut maize at 30-35% dry matter (DM) for optimal starch levels and palatability.

“If it’s cut too early at, say, 25% DM, you get more acidic silage with lower starch content, and cows won’t eat it,” he said.

Mr Radmore’s images highlight the need for precision monitoring and improved drought resilience in future cropping strategies.