Grain yield in Europe is expected above the long-term average in 2021

The European Union-27 is experiencing favorable weather conditions that have led to increased yields for cereal fields, including common wheat, durum wheat, barley, and maize. The highest yields are expected in Germany and France, while yields have been reduced in Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. The cooler temperatures have helped avoid water stress in most areas, but overly wet conditions have increased pressure from pests and diseases and hampered field work in the Baltic States and southern and eastern Ukraine.

The agrometeorological forecast service of the EU Commission assumes above-average grain yields for 2021, with moderate increases in maize yield estimates. The warmer weather and sufficient moisture have improved the yield prospects for rapeseed and most crops, but reduced solar radiation during the flowering period has reduced potential yields in some areas. Overall, the weather conditions have accelerated biomass accumulation and promoted the development of cereal fields across Europe.