Winter crop development in Ukraine is 2–3 weeks behind the long-term average

Winter crop development in Ukraine was running 2–3 weeks behind the long-term average at the end of October 2026 due to earlier drought conditions and delays in the sowing campaign. At the same time, agrometeorological conditions for the early growth of winter crops remained generally satisfactory, while October rainfall significantly improved soil moisture availability. This was reported in the latest ten-day review by the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center.

During the last ten days of October, average daily air temperatures fell below +10°C across most of Ukraine. This transition occurred 2–3 weeks later than the long-term average. However, in most western regions, as well as in parts of Zhytomyr and Vinnytsia regions, temperatures crossed this threshold on October 12–13, also later than the climatic norm.

Rainfall across almost the entire country helped replenish available soil moisture reserves. As of October 31, soil moisture levels in most planted areas were assessed as sufficient or optimal. Particularly noticeable improvements were recorded in Odesa, Mykolaiv, and parts of Vinnytsia and Lviv regions, where prolonged dry conditions had previously persisted. Combined with warm weather, the rainfall created favorable conditions for winter crop growth.

Despite sufficient warmth and improved soil moisture availability, winter crop development remained delayed across many areas. Most crops were at the emergence or third-leaf stage, while grain germination was still underway in later-sown fields. Tillering had begun in some locations, but widespread tillering was observed only in certain areas where crops had been sown in September.

Overall, winter crop conditions at the end of October were rated as good or satisfactory, and excellent in some areas. Thus, despite delays in crop development, adequate soil moisture reserves and relatively warm weather continued to support vegetation and provide favorable conditions for further growth.

Tags: Ukraine, crop condition