El Niño could trigger a global shortage of high-quality seeds

The spread of El Niño and moisture shortages in some regions could lead to a shortage of high-quality agricultural seeds on the global market. Problems may emerge particularly in countries where unfavorable weather conditions affect seed production.

According to Limagrain product manager Volodymyr Kuzmych, insufficient moisture could negatively affect not only seed production volumes but also quality characteristics. In particular, thousand-seed weight could be affected. Against this backdrop, a shortage of planting seeds is expected on the global market.

At the same time, Ukrainian seed production could be in a more favorable position. Limagrain is seeking to increase the share of locally produced seeds supplied to the Ukrainian market. In the 2026/27 season, the company expects to offer Ukrainian farmers corn seed produced domestically.

This year, a seed production field for the medium-early LG 31263 corn hybrid, with FAO 270, has been established at LNZ-Agro. The field is irrigated, reducing its dependence on natural moisture availability. According to the company, irrigation combined with favorable temperatures and soils should result in well-filled seeds with an optimal thousand-seed weight.

Limagrain believes Ukrainian farmers should pay greater attention to domestically produced seeds in the 2026/27 season amid the risk of a global shortage. Seed production in Ukraine under controlled moisture conditions could provide an additional advantage if adverse weather reduces seed quality in other producing countries.

Tags: seeds