UK Winter Wheat Harvest: Lower Yields but Higher Protein Content

The UK winter wheat harvest, collected as of late July, shows lower yields but improved protein content. According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), approximately 11% of the harvest has been completed, surpassing the progress of the past two years but aligning with 2022 levels. Average yields stand at 6.9 t/ha, 11% below the five-year average (2020–2024), with significant regional variations.

Despite the reduced yields, wheat quality remains strong, with protein content in processed samples reaching 14% or higher, compared to 12.5% last year. This is a positive development for producers, as higher protein levels increase the grain’s market value. However, the dry summer has been a key limiting factor, particularly for lighter soils, while heavier, moisture-retentive soils have performed better.

The winter rapeseed harvest is also progressing, with 54% of the crop collected, down from 73% at this point last year. Yields, except in Wales, exceed both last year’s figures and the five-year average, reaching 3.76 t/ha, over 20% above the five-year mean. The eastern region has seen particularly strong results, with yields nearly 40% above the five-year average and oil content averaging around 45%.

The winter barley harvest is nearly complete, except in Scotland and Northern Ireland, while spring barley and pulse crops are in early stages of collection. Winter barley yields vary widely, ranging from 4.7 t/ha to 8.3 t/ha, but are generally in line with the five-year average of 6.7 t/ha. Moisture has been a critical factor this season, with recent rains prompting some farmers to harvest earlier to preserve grain quality.

Helen Plant, senior cereals analyst at AHDB, noted that the UK yield picture remains unclear due to regional disparities. “Results are mixed: oilseed rape and winter barley yields are encouraging, while early winter wheat yields are below average. Moisture has been the main constraint, but the high protein content in wheat is a positive signal for the market,” she said.

Tags: wheat, crop forecast, UK