Different expectations for spring barley in Europe
In Europe, the expected amount of spring barley will most likely exceed last year’s amount. Beside the expansion of acreage, first results of yield and quality in some countries are good at the end of July, although the crop in regions with heavy rain are not nearly as far developed. In East Europe, the barley was affected by drought.
Harvest results in the south-west of Germany show yields of 5.0 – 9.0 t/ha. The protein values are in the desired area of 9.5 to 11.5 %. The screening is clearly above 90 %. In France, an average of 6.3 t/ha is expected, with low protein value. The estimated amount clearly lies above last year’s low results.
In Denmark, the sowing started later than in normal years in some regions. This is why the harvest was expected to be in mid-August. The plant population is identified as good. The upcoming weather conditions will determine the crop results. In the other Scandinavian countries, the sowing had to start later as well. Therefore the plant population is less developed. In the consequence of heavy rain and low temperatures in the middle of Sweden, effects on the yield are expected. Furthermore yields and qualities are expected to vary a lot.
Great Britain had to suffer under heavy rain und low temperatures during the period of vegetation as well. This caused a delay in the development of the plants not only in Scotland. There is the talk of delay of the harvest from up to two or three weeks in the entire country. Even though the density was described as very good, the moisture caused leaf – and ear-diseases. The yield is being corrected downward at the moment. So far the results were determined as satisfying. Mycotoxins could lead to quality problems.
In Austria, the harvest was completed in advanced regions. Here the period of vegetation was accompanied by drought. The consequences are substandard yields with scarce screening and most of the times high protein values. The Czech Republic and Slovakia also have problems with drought. The harvest in Slovakia had to start 2 weeks earlier. Approximately 60 % are already brought in. Less than average yields are the result. When lower yields are the case, higher protein values and lower screening are possible. The harvest in the Czech Republic is expected to take place in the first half of August, accompanied with average yields. Big differences are expected between the various regions.
Weak development of the plant population is characteristic for Hungary as well. The harvest is in an advanced state. Substandard yields and high protein values are expected. The dry weather in June in Russia will probably have negative effects on the yield. Higher protein values would be the consequence. Estimations concerning the import demand vary greatly.
