We have all been worried about the excessive rains in South Africa’s 2024-25 summer grains and oilseed producing regions lately.
Yes, the season was completed roughly a month later than the typical schedule, so the crop pollination was also late. Thus, the rains in March helped greatly in supporting the crop.
But when it continued to rain through to April, we started to worry about the quality of the crop.
Thus, I was happy to turn on my computer this morning, check the weather forecast, and see the picture below. Look closely at the South African maps — clear skies.
This means the harvest could gain momentum in the coming weeks, the fields dry up, and farmers can start with field work.
We have a decent 2024-25 summer rain and oilseed harvest ahead of us — about 18.01 million tonnes, up 16% from the previous season. This estimate comprises yellow and white maize, sunflower seed, soybeans, groundnuts, sorghum, and dry beans.
And yes, we will learn about the quality issues when the harvest gains momentum.
But for now, this is a nice picture we want to see in the summer grains and oilseed producing regions of South Africa.
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