Argentina's corn harvest at risk as rains delay work on 150,000 hectares

Argentina's agricultural heartland faces mounting anxiety as persistent rains and humidity have stalled the crucial late-season corn harvest. Nearly 150,000 hectares, representing 47% of the crop, remain unharvested, raising fears of significant deterioration.

Technicians in Alvear express deep concern, noting that sorghum crops are already sprouting and no one dares to inspect the cornfields. The Guía Estratégica para el Agro (GEA) of the Bolsa de Comercio de Rosario (BCR) reports that weather conditions in July virtually halted harvest operations. The focus is now on regaining access to the fields to complete the work and assess the cereal's condition.

While widespread damage has not yet been confirmed, the prolonged delay after a period of high humidity poses a significant risk. The BCR highlighted that continuous rain and poor soil conditions have postponed fieldwork, effectively freezing the late corn harvest for the past month. Farmers are now eagerly awaiting a change in weather, with forecasts predicting a return of cold, sunny, and stable conditions, including potential frosts.

Meanwhile, wheat producers are also watching the skies. Analysis from the GEA/BCR station network reveals that the core region received 20% to 40% less solar radiation between June 1 and July 31 compared to the same period last year. This is significant because last year's combination of ample sunlight and low temperatures contributed to exceptional wheat yields. Despite the reduced sunlight this year, wheat crops are reportedly growing well, with technicians noting good tillering and density, suggesting favorable conditions for now.

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Today our main concern is the late corn harvest. We are already seeing sprouted sorghum fields. Nobody wants to go see how the corn is. We are truly scared.