RAINFALL during October has helped improve crop yield expectations across parts of South Australia while boosting the estimated grain production to 8.8 million tonnes.
According to the latest Crop and Pasture Report 2025-26 – Spring Crop Performance, which was released by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), October rain boosted grain and pod fill in crops which were still maturing.
The dry start to the season and later crop establishment helped crops take advantage of the late rainfall.
Harvest has begun in some districts but is later than usual.
Yields vary across regions, with results ranging from below average in the Northern Mallee, where rainfall was limited, to above average in parts of the Mid North and South East.
Hay production estimates have risen by 15.6 per cent, as some cereal crops were cut for hay rather than harvested for grain, supported by strong hay prices.
Rainfall during curing affected hay quality in several regions, particularly in the South East and Lower North.
Farmers are being advised to monitor rising mice numbers across key cropping regions including the Adelaide Plains, Yorke Peninsula and Eyre Peninsula, with
reports of active breeding likely to create challenges at sowing time.
The full 2025–26 Spring Crop Performance report is available on the PIRSA website as well as more information about drought assistance.
