Harvest results variable due to challenging weather

We have released our sixth and final harvest report for the 2024/25 season. Data from the Met Office highlights how dry weather towards the beginning of harvest gave way to frustrating delays towards the end.

With the completion of cereal and oilseed harvesting for all farmers in our UK survey, the report reflects on the 2024 harvest results.

Helen Plant, AHDB Senior Analyst (Cereals & Oilseeds), said:

“Despite being planted later than usual, spring crops generally fared much better than winter crops, which had a very tough start with the second-wettest August through February since 1837, when records began.”

Weather conditions were favourable during much of the 2024 wheat harvest. Eighty-eight per cent was cut by 28 August, well ahead of the five-year average of 60% complete at that stage.

However, progress slowed down in September as rain and humid conditions led to interruptions. Yields are estimated to be down 7% on average across the UK, at 7.5 t/ha.

While some growers have managed to produce high yields given the circumstances, many have seen significant drops.

The winter and spring barley harvest is now complete, and the quality has been good, with good germination scores but low nitrogen levels.

The moisture content of spring barley samples increased on average as the harvest progressed into Scotland. However, moisture-adjusted yields were only down 3% on the five-year average level across the UK.

The performance of oats improved noticeably towards the end of the harvest, indicating the shift from winter oats to spring oats.

The winter crop was generally established in poor conditions. However, despite many spring oats being planted much later than usual, they had a favourable start. Oat yields (winter and spring crops combined) in the UK were just 2% below the five-year average.

Oilseed rape quality has been good this season, with high oil content. Yields have been variable from region to region and are down 8% on average, at 2.97 t/ha.

Helen added:

“It is evident just how variable yields are from region to region, farm to farm, and field to field.

"This is not surprising given the unusual weather we have experienced, but the larger drop in yields for some businesses will pose significant cash flow challenges.

“With harvest, complete attention is now turning to establishing the 2025 crop. Many will be eager to get winter cereals in the ground, considering last year’s extremely wet autumn and winter conditions.”