France’s maize harvest is significantly behind schedule, primarily due to heavy rainfall affecting field work. Key points include:
Harvest Progress: As of October 14, only 13% of the maize crop had been harvested, a slight increase from 6% the previous week, but far below the 67% harvested at the same time last year and the five-year average of 55%.
Weather Impact: The country has experienced its wettest September in 25 years, along with continued rainfall in early October, leading to waterlogged fields and contributing to the smallest wheat harvest in 40 years this summer.
Crop Condition: Despite the delays, 78% of the maize crop is rated in good or excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but down from 83% last year.
Post-Harvest Costs: Prolonged wet conditions are expected to increase post-harvest drying costs for farmers.
Winter Cereals Sowing: The wet weather has also delayed the sowing of winter cereals, with only 10% of the expected soft wheat area and 20% of the winter barley area sown by Monday, compared to five-year averages of 27% and 42%, respectively.
These challenges pose significant risks for French farmers as they navigate adverse weather conditions affecting both current and future harvests.