Tuesday 25 September 2012
Ireland
Rounding off the harvest
The recent fine spell has resulted in the vast majority of cereal crops being harvested in good conditions. However, the better harvest weather did not result in any improvement in either yield or quality from recently harvested crop. It is now likely that we are into the last 5% or so of the grain harvest but this is much higher in some local areas.
The overall trend in crop yields remained broadly similar to the story of recent weeks but many growers report that yields from later harvested crops were actually lower than those harvested earlier. Some crops experienced an element of loss with straw brackling and heads being lost under the blade.
While most areas had good harvest weather last week other areas only had two or three really good harvest days. Ground conditions remained difficult in places and there are still pockets of land waiting to be harvested. So while many areas are finished cutting cereals, other still have a significant proportion to cut.
Prices for in-spec have firmed slightly over the past week but the market will soon begin to differentiate and discount the lower quality grain produced as a consequence of the very poor grain fill resulting mainly from the bad summer weather.
Dry prices for current usage are now up around €265 to €268/t for wheat with dry barley around €245/t. Green barley prices are in the €200-€210/t range with quality being a significant factor.
Demand for straw has livened up in parts of the country with local demand being the major driver. Prices appear broadly similar with €12-€15 for 4x4 round bales in most parts of the country.
Paul Mooney spoke to growers around the country for their views on harvest 2012.
farmersjournal.ie
Source: Argentine Beef Packers S.A.
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