Farmers wrapping up cereal production: Quantity of completed harvests

The ongoing winter barley harvest in Germany is showing signs of a positive outcome, according to the farmers' association. After a cautious start due to dry conditions in the spring, the forecast for the next few days is much drier and sunnier in most regions, potentially improving the harvest.

In July, showers and thunderstorms across Germany delayed the harvest of winter barley in many regions. However, these weather conditions also provided a chance for farmers without drying facilities. Short dry windows allowed them to harvest at least with good qualities, as they had a limited opportunity to dry their grain.

Farmers with drying facilities had an advantage this year and were able to harvest even at high grain moisture levels. This was due to the high grain moisture levels that some farmers without drying facilities had been facing. Traders in some regions also accepted moister grain out of concern for falling qualities due to the persistent rain in July.

Despite numerous rain showers hindering harvest efforts, the expected grain yield in Germany for 2025 is about 37.5 million tons (excluding corn), which is 10% higher than the previous year. This indicates that most grain has been harvested or remains in good condition rather than being lost on fields.

The challenges faced by farmers without drying facilities were significant, but they managed to overcome them with the help of short dry windows. This year's harvest has been a testament to the resilience of German farmers and the adaptability of the agricultural industry in the face of adversity.

As the harvest continues, farmers and traders alike will be keeping a close eye on the weather and the quality of the grain. With the forecast looking promising and the majority of the harvest already completed, Germany's winter barley harvest is shaping up to be a successful one.