If the weather holds, harvesters should begin entering the fields within the next two weeks, starting with barley and followed by wheat. Crops are currently well developed, leading both producers and experts to expect higher yields than in the last three to four years. This June, farmers are notably more satisfied with the wheat’s condition compared to last year, hoping for yields that exceed the multi-year average.
Milorad Klincov, a farmer from Srpska Crnja, reports that his crops look excellent and forecasts about 4 tons per acre, possibly more in some plots, provided temperatures stay moderate to avoid premature ripening. Nebojša Petkanić from Elemir expects around 6 tons per hectare, slightly above average due to favorable May rains, although he remains cautious about weather conditions before harvest begins at the end of June.
Experts confirm that wheat looks much better this year than last, despite a challenging start in winter. Zorica Rajačić from PSS Zrenjanin notes that the crops overwintered well, with improved precipitation in March, April, and May boosting growth. She adds that farmers are investing more in fertilizing and crop protection, though many still use seeds from their own production.
Disease control has focused on protecting the upper parts of the crops from net and gray spot diseases, with two fungicidal treatments applied this year. Insect issues, particularly grain lice, have been mitigated by heavy May rains. In some areas, lice presence on corn ears has been recorded, and farmers with later-sown wheat are advised to monitor and treat if necessary.
Estimating the total wheat harvest from roughly 50,000 hectares in Middle Banat is difficult, but experts are optimistic about higher yields compared to previous years. Variations in yield will persist due to differences in agricultural practices and uneven rainfall distribution across plots.
Although this year saw 30 liters less rain than last year in the region, the improved distribution positively impacted the crops. The main concern for farmers remains the price of the new wheat crop, which currently stands between 19 and 20 dinars per kilogram.
