Tuesday 16 May 2017

Another big Russian wheat crop on the way

Russia’s Ministry of Agriculture reports accumulated fertiliser stocks up 10% more than last year which points to another big Russian crop this harvest.

While it’s too early to call the spring sown crops as just under 50% are still to be planted, my sources across Russia are quietly telling me their wheat is looking good.

Recent rains should now take it over the finish line, barring a catastrophic heat wave or a plague of locusts (both of which could happen).

We’ll be touring Russia in two weeks and will get a fuller picture then but I have noticed that less rain this season compared to lasts suggests we won’t see the same level of lodged crops and diseases.

Which also suggests improved quality for new crop wheat which could encourage discounts for old crop still languishing in sheds which won't be getting any better the longer it sits there.