According to estimates from the agricultural agency FranceAgriMer, the condition of winter soft crops in France has deteriorated slightly after several weeks of stability. Nonetheless, the overall French wheat conditions stabilize at a level that remains better than last year. This trend is noteworthy for grain buyers.
French Wheat Conditions Stabilize Despite Small Decline
As of April 20, 83% of crops were in good or excellent condition. This compares to 84% the week before and 74% last year. Therefore, the current reading remains strong historically.
Winter Barley Holds Steady, Spring Barley Improves
Meanwhile, the condition of winter barley crops remained unchanged. Specifically, 81% were in good or excellent condition, as was the previous week. For context, only 72% reached this level in 2025.
As for spring crops, the results are also positive. On the reporting date, 92% of spring barley crops were in good or very good condition. This is slightly lower than the previous week’s figure (93%). Yet, it is significantly higher than the same date in 2025 (84%).
Corn Sowing Lags While Emergence Dips Slightly
It was also reported that by April 20, 31% of the planned corn area in France had been sown. This matches the 31% from the week before. However, it is well behind the 49% sown a year earlier.
Furthermore, the proportion of corn that has emerged has decreased slightly compared to last year. It fell to 11% versus 12%. Consequently, farmers may need favorable weather to catch up.
In summary, French wheat conditions stabilize at a solid 83% good-to-excellent. Barley crops also show resilience. However, the slower corn sowing pace deserves attention in the coming weeks.
Source: APKinform (Ukraine)