The UK is experiencing one of its earliest maize harvests in recent memory due to a warm spring and early planting. While this has sped up crop maturity, it has also led to lower yields, especially on light, gravelly soils affected by drought. Combined with reduced grass silage yields, this raises concerns about forage shortages heading into winter.
Some farmers have already begun harvesting, particularly where drought stress forced early maturity. Dry matter levels range between 35% and 46%, and overall yields are slightly below or around the five-year farm average – not yet cause for alarm.
Later-harvested crops, especially on heavier soils or in wetter regions, are expected to improve the overall yield picture. One clear benefit of the early harvest is more efficient operations and better soil conditions for the next crops.
This season highlights the need to manage risk by diversifying maturity types. Growers relying only on ultra-early varieties may now consider a wider mix. One standout variety this year has been AROLDO, which showed strong drought tolerance, robust root systems, and good cob development.
Overall, 2025 is a reminder that choosing the right variety for each site – prioritising stress and disease tolerance – is key to protecting yield and forage quality.