UK expects record rapeseed yields

Average rapeseed yields in the UK could exceed 4 t/ha for the first time on record in 2026, setting a new all-time high. The preliminary harvest results were reported by United Oilseeds based on data collected from growers across the country.

Current yields are well above long-term levels. According to AHDB, the UK’s 10-year average rapeseed yield is around 3.3 t/ha, while in 2025 it reached 3.7 t/ha, one of the highest levels recorded since 2017.

The rapeseed harvest is now largely complete in England and is rapidly drawing to a close in Scotland. Despite prolonged dry weather during the 2025/26 season, results have exceeded expectations. The crop’s resilience to moisture shortages is partly attributed to its deep-rooting system.

Improved varieties, better crop management and more effective control of cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB), which has been one of the main challenges for UK rapeseed growers in recent years, have also contributed to the strong results. Many growers have described rapeseed as one of the best-performing and most profitable crops in their rotations this season.

UK domestic demand for rapeseed remains close to 2 mln tons per year, meaning the country still requires significant imports. At the same time, strong harvest results and favorable market conditions could help restore British farmers’ interest in growing rapeseed after several challenging seasons.

Tags: UK, rapeseed