Scandinavia: Finland malting barley growers were more lucky than growers in Sweden and Denmark

Eastern part of Denmark and South Sweden received over the last week upto 150
mm of rain per square meter and August is now the wettest in last 44 years. Next days are expected to be dryer, showers will start again from August 26, H. Abildstrøm & Co ApS released in its Scandinavian Malting Barley report No/09 of August 24.

South Sweden is likely to have lost nearly 20% of the malting barley in the fields. Danish Islands reported 15% of the harvest was irremediably compromised (except Lolland/Falster) and Jutland 20% accordingly.
Some harvesting took place in Jutland August 24, but results in terms of quality are still unknown.

The rest of the malting barley in the mentioned areas now is sprouting and is turning grey/black. Lodging is also seen in many places.

Growers hope that Mid-Sweden will still be able to cut acceptable qualities but for this purpose they need a few dry days to commence again. With nice weather the harvest could finish in about 5 days.

Finland is surprising in every way but very is defined regionally. Extreme south west 10.5 pro, a record yield, 92% and above screening. In other districts 11-12 pro normal yield, 88% above 2.5 mm. The harvesting is going on and with dry conditions could finish before August 31. It is too early to assess the total picture but Finland growers have had more luck than growers from Denmark and Sweden.

Crop 2006 Denmark/Sweden optional spring malting barley max 12% protein price is around €155 basis 3000 ts , max 14.5% moisture, FOB. 1st half October.

07 September, 2006