AHDB opens 2025 planting survey to assess UK crop areas
© Tim Scrivener The AHDB has launched its 2025 Planting Survey, aiming to estimate the area of cereals and oilseed rape intended for harvest in the UK.
The survey, which is open until 16 May, will provide crucial data on the variety and area of wheat, barley, oats, and oilseed rape crops.
The survey’s findings are vital for estimating domestic crop production, particularly at a time when food security is a key concern.
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The results will enable the industry to quantify production levels and offer valuable insights for market shaping and trade decisions.
What the 2024 survey revealed
- The total wheat area was estimated at 1.56m ha, a 9% decrease from the previous year, marking the second-smallest area since 1981.
- The total barley area rose by 6%, reaching 1.2m ha, though only 1% above the five-year average.
- Spring barley saw a significant increase of 18%, reaching 804,000ha, the third largest area since the early 2000s.
- Winter barley decreased by 12%, with an area of 402,000ha, 2% below the five-year average.
Additionally, the survey will help inform regional crop development and focus genetic research for future seasons.
This data is also essential for levy payers, providing insights into regional crop supply, which can directly influence marketing decisions.
AHDB urges collaboration by farmers, growers and industry stakeholder to help produce reliable data that will guide both short and long-term planning.
The survey can be completed at AHDB Planting and Variety Survey | AHDB.
