In recent weeks some of Victoria’s cropping regions have experienced the incidence of frost, which can have an impact on yield potential for cereal crops when at the flowering and grain-fill growth stage.
Agriculture Victoria seasonal risk agronomist Dale Boyd said critical analysis during grain-fill will identify if frosts have affected the crop.
‘There are many methods available for farmers to estimate yield of various crops, from quick and relatively straightforward to more detailed and complex methods,’ Mr Boyd said.
‘The ‘guide to estimating crop yields’ uses the simple rule-of-thumb method.
‘This can be done relatively quickly with the use of a ruler and a smart device, eliminating the use of paper and pen that can get wet while in the crop,’ he said.
Mr Boyd said the type of yield estimate outlined is one of the easiest and quickest to complete and can be used in a number of situations in cereal paddocks.
‘Immediate feedback on crop yield is produced, and by assessing a number of paddocks it will provide valuable insights to assist with decisions.’
‘Crop yield assessments can assist in forecasting grain quality prospects, and/or hay versus grain harvest potential.’
Step-by-step instructions for using the crop yield calculator can be found online via the Agriculture Victoria website.
