SA is headed towards an eighth consecutive above-average crop of 8.9 million tonnes, according to PIRSA’s latest Crop and Pasture Report, after ideal rainfall and growing conditions.
Despite ongoing wet conditions causing disease concerns, and the threat from Russian Wheat Aphids, the state is expected to have its third largest crop on record.
PIRSA grains industry account manager Dave Lewis said average rainfall records in July and warm conditions during August helped crops grow and reduced waterlogging in some areas.
“While foliage diseases on crops may cause some limitation to the potential yield, we remain confident with the production estimate remaining above average,” he said.
Lowaldie cropper Peter Loller said he experienced minor waterlogging after receiving 264 millimetres for the growing season to-date, but was not complaining.
"We've hardly had any rain in the past two springs so we're very happy with crop growth and health,” he said.
Mr Loller said his 1500 hectare croppin operation was on-track, despite encountering RWA in his wheat and barley.
“There seem to a be a fair few predatory insects about keeping them in check,” he said.
