Continuing hot and dry weather meant harvest progressed relatively smoothly, but it wasn’t without its challenges. Combining began around three weeks earlier than usual, meaning the team had to squeeze in some much-needed holiday while getting every piece of machinery prepared and ready for action in record time.

The prolonged dry conditions also brought a heightened risk of field fires. This was always at the back of everyone’s minds, so extra care was taken to keep machinery clean, blown down and properly serviced throughout harvest.

Our oilseed rape performed particularly well despite the heat, producing yields above expectations. Careful timing played an important part, with the team combining during the early mornings and late evenings while avoiding the hottest parts of the day. This helped the crop come into store with good moisture and temperature readings. It has now been loaded onto lorries, and the shed cleared ready for the next crop.

The winter and spring barley produced more of a mixed result. Winter barley yields were slightly below expectations, while the spring barley suffered considerably in the dry spring. That is always frustrating because, regardless of how hard the team works, farming will forever be at the mercy of the weather. The winter barley has now been sold and is waiting to be collected.

The winter wheat was also variable, performing very well in some fields and less well in others. Overall, however, the team is pleased with the result. Final stock checks and grain analysis will take place during the remainder of August, helping us decide where the different grain samples will eventually be sold and used.