UK crops likely to suffer impacts of driest spring
3rd June 2025
The dry spring of 2025 is likely to have caused damage to many crops across the UK, with some regions facing severe moisture stress and declining yield potential.
According to the latest report from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and RSK ADAS Ltd, winter and spring crops have been notably affected, with national condition ratings for key cereals such as winter wheat, winter barley, and spring barley all dropping sharply since April.
As of late May, just 36% of winter wheat crops were rated in good or excellent condition, down from 60% a month prior.
The report, which captures crop data up to Monday 26th May 2025, highlights the widespread impact of the warm, dry weather throughout April and much of May, which accelerated crop development by up to two weeks in many areas while limiting nutrient uptake and reducing tillering.
Although recent rainfall has brought some relief, the effects are not yet fully captured in the report, and future rainfall will be critical in determining final yields and grain quality.
Next four weeks will be critical
Helen Plant, AHDB senior analyst (Cereals & Oilseeds), explained that crops on lighter soils are struggling the most, with poor nitrogen uptake resulting in thinner crops and stunted growth.
“There’s no question that yield potential has taken a hit, but heavy rainfall in the final week of May brought much-needed relief and renewed optimism for many,” the expert added.
The report also reveals major regional variation. In Scotland and the South East of England, spring cereals have particularly suffered, while Northern Ireland has experienced more favourable conditions, with most crops reported to be in good shape.
Dry weather has also helped suppress disease and weed pressure for now, though thin canopies and improving soil moisture could create conditions for resurgence.
Yellow rust is the main disease of concern, particularly in susceptible winter wheat varieties in the North East and East Midlands. Aphid activity is being monitored, but pest pressure remains low so far.
AHDB has warned that the next four weeks will be “critical”. Ms Plant added: “Looking ahead is difficult, and crop prospects depend heavily on future rainfall. For all crops, rainfall through June will be paramount in determining final yields and quality.”
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