Wheat yield below average

6 August 2001



Wheat yield below average

WHEAT yields are below average for Kent farmer Keith Millen, who farms near Biddenden.

Eighteen hectares (45 acres) of Claire yielded about 6.8-7.4t/ha (2.75-3t/acre). They would expect to yield 9.9t/ha (4t/acre).

“As winter and spring progressed it was expected, although Im still disappointed.”

The crop was drilled in early October. Conditions worsened and the rest of the cereal area is set-a-side.

Drought conditions in May and June were not helpful for the crop, he said. Soil on the farm varies from Weald clay to more sandy soil.

The crop has been combined about ten days earlier than usual. “The sun had dried it off. It was not really ready, but I was anxious to get it in before the rain.”

The moisture varied between 13-16%.

Click here to return to Harvest Highlights front page

Click the button below to return to FWi News headlines