In comparison to the same time period in recent years, the conditions look better than usual. However, the growth period is long and how much of the potential that remains when it is time to harvest is largely dependent on the weather during the coming months.
“A very small proportion of what was sown during autumn has parished. So far virtually all of the harvest potential remains in the autumn sowing but it is early days and a lot needs to be done during the long journey to harvest,” says Cathrine Wallin, Regional Manager, Lantmännen Lantbruk.
The extent of how far along spring planting has come varies both between and within different parts of the country, but it is clear that the rising daily temperatures are causing many farmers to start their spring farming earlier this year. In Närke, Uppland and Västmanland, spring farming is, for the most part, complete. In some places, the spring crops have already found their way up. The precipitation during the past week has been much needed where the farmers have had time to sow, but at the same time caused the spring cultivation to halt in Dalarna and Hälsingland, where it is estimated that they continue this week.
Furthermore, sowing has already begun in parts of Jämtland and Medelpad, not least around Sundsvall. Around Umeå and further north it is still a little too cold in the soils, but as it gets warmer spring sowing can start. In general, in these latitudes, farmers tend to get out in the fields earlier in coastal agriculture. Inlands, it will take a while longer before the conditions are right.
Increased climate adaptation to enable growth
The experience of severe weather changes ahead of the harvests of recent years is prompting farmers to review their cultivation strategies. Autumn sowing is record-breaking and the grassland, which is so important for the region, is facing increased competition from more heat-resistant maize cultivation for feed and silage. Both are clear examples of farmers adapting to a changing climate.
"Farmers have always understood that every decision in cultivation has both significance and consequence. In recent years, I can state that these decisions are made to a greater extent to reduce the risks of volume loss, so also this year," concludes Cathrine Wallin.
“Swedish agriculture and food production are world-class in terms of sustainability, animal welfare and food quality – with growth-focused investments and measures for climate adaptation, we can increase volumes significantly. Creating the conditions for a viable agriculture is a prerequisite for stronger preparedness,” says Patrik Myrelid, Head of Strategy at Lantmännen and member of the Swedish government's national expert council for climate adaptation.
Additional information related to the Swedish harvest
- Farmer’s report Before spring sowing (Only in Swedish)
- Matvärnet (only in Swedish)
For more information, please contact:
Lantmännen's Press Office
Tel: +46 10 556 88 00
E-mail: press@lantmannen.com