LOCAL paddocks have transformed into a patchwork of bright yellow expanses as canola fields flower and promise a better than expected harvest this year.
Average rainfall this growing season, on the back of a wet season in spring/summer of 2022, has created some headaches for crop growers, but many have high hopes this harvest.
Andrew Russell, managing director of Liliput Ag, which is a sister company of Baker Seeds, is very pleased with the progression of his crops so far.
Mr Russell, who is the southern panel chair for the Grains and Research Development Corporation (GRDC), said he has around 1000 hectares of the family's 2500 hectares south of Rutherglen planted with canola.
“We had plenty of rain in the spring and summer periods last year which has carried into this year that has not allowed soil conditions to dry out,” he said.
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“A cold winter with not a lot of sunlight is another contributing factor for soils to remain wet.
“However, in comparison to 2022, we are in a much healthier position this year in relation to soil moisture and crop health.
“We still have water sitting in areas of our paddocks which has affected the canola with losses ranging from 5-25 per cent in some cases.
“Canola started flowering a little earlier this year and with the milder conditions this should help the flowering process.
“We have had more than enough rain and we are hoping that as conditions warm up along with less rain, it will allow plants to absorb the moisture and grow in a warmer climate as spring progresses.
“When water sits on the ground, it creates a problem for the canola plants as they cannot breathe and can severely stunt plant growth.
“It would be an absolute blessing if we had no rain for a few weeks for crop conditions to settle.
“Commodity prices remain stable for canola at this point and we are hoping this forecast remains that way for a strong return in December.
“The only problem we are facing at this point is the supply of urea as farmers across Victoria and New South Wales.
“Urea is critical for canola as this product supplies nitrogen to the canola as the plants need nitrogen to grow and yield.
“Last season our team was harvesting in January 2023 but we are remaining optimistic that we can complete our harvest by December 2023 so we can enjoy a well-deserved break.”
