October 23, 2000

Excellent Prospects for Argentina Wheat Crop

The Argentine wheat crop is progressing well. Planting was completed in mid-September. Rainfall in September was below normal in the northern–most part of Buenos Aires, southern Santa Fe and Cordoba reducing soil moisture for vegetative wheat. However, beneficial rainfall began arriving in early October. Rainfall covered most of the wheat region boosting soil moisture for developing wheat. The exception was wheat grown in northern Cordoba and northern Santa Fe. These areas have been the driest and most in need of rainfall. Light rain last week provided some relief.

Overall, the crop is reportedly in good condition with the majority in tillering to jointing stages and the most advanced, or earliest-planted crop, entering the heading stage. The harvest generally begins in November and continues through January.

USDA’s October 12 estimate for wheat production is 15.5 million tons, up 3 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.1 million hectares and yield is estimated at 2.54 MT/ha, slightly higher than the 5-year average.

For more information, contact Maria Anulacion with the Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Division on (202) 690-0139.