The updated South Australian PIRSA Crop and Pasture report shows the total crop area is estimated to be four million hectares, with crop production estimated at 7.25 million tonnes.

Agriculture and Food Minister Michael O’Brien said while soil moisture levels were now very good, crops are soft and will be vulnerable to any rapid increase of temperatures during spring.

“Crops are generally in very good condition following above average rainfall during August, although growth has been slower than normal as a result of below average temperatures,” he said.

“The major rain event on the weekend significantly boosted soil moisture levels and some farmers are experiencing waterlogging.”

Mr O’Brien said pests, such as mice and locusts, as well as crop diseases and other seasonal factors could still influence the final outcome.

“Mice have continued to cause damage during July August with some farmers re-baiting significant areas of crop; however numbers have dropped in most areas due to recent wet weather and below average temperatures,” he said.

“Locusts remain a significant threat particularly in the northern districts, with peak hatching in the Northern Mallee due around September 26.”

Mr O’Brien said there was also a shortage of nitrogen fertiliser supplies, with recent high demand due to improved grain prices and good rainfall.

“While foliar diseases are currently at manageable levels, reports of stripe rust in several districts represent a significant threat to wheat crops,” he said.

“If conditions allow diseases to build up during spring, fungicides are likely to be in short supply and farmers will need to plan well ahead.”

Mr O’Brien said most pastures have put on very good growth during July-August and there was very good potential for hay and fodder production during spring.

* Full Harvest Feature in Stock Journal, September 30 issue.