Maize harvest begins three weeks early in parts of UK
4th September 2025
With drought continuing to affect large areas of the UK, maize growers are closely monitoring crop development to determine optimal harvest timing. Some of them have already started harvesting.
The Maize Growers Association said that while some regions have seen favourable growing conditions, others have begun harvesting up to three weeks earlier than usual.
A warm spring and early drilling have accelerated crop maturity in many areas, while drought stress, particularly on lighter, gravelly soils, is also prompting earlier harvests.
A spokesperson for the association confirmed that crops currently being harvested are showing dry matter levels between 35 and 40%, and yields are running at or below the farm’s five-year average. However, later-harvested crops are expected to improve overall yield performance as conditions stabilise.
Field-by-field assessment recommended
“Growers are being advised to assess plant health and cob development carefully. In particular, fields on light soils or those drilled early may require closer attention, as heat and moisture deficits are likely to hasten maturity and senescence,” they added.
The MGA recommends a field-by-field assessment to determine whether early harvesting is necessary or if crops can be left to reach full maturity within the typical harvest window.
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