While harvest has kicked off around the region for early planted crops such as barley, McGregor Gourlay senior agronomist Scott Rogers said it’s been a staggered start due to the weather conditions and crop maturity.

Mr Rogers said rain had halted harvest for growers who had early planted crops ready to go and prolonged harvest for growers who were gearing up to start. 

“The cool, wet weather has slowed down the speed crops are ripening,” he said.

Early planted crops haven’t benefitted from recent falls, but crops planted later in the season have received a boost from the moisture, especially later sown chickpeas.

Rain has also boosted prospects for more summer sowing this season, with some moisture profiles good enough to plant sorghum and dryland cotton.  

“Cotton can be planted through until the end of November,” Mr Rogers said.

“Some growers haven’t had enough rain yet to plant but they’re getting close. Another one or two good falls and they’ll be able to plant. A few weeks ago a lot of growers were looking at no chance of getting a summer crop in.”

The rain has also been good news for irrigators who were having to pre-irrigate ahead of cotton planting.

“This rainfall allows them to plant in moisture and save their water for later in the season,” Mr Rogers said.