In recent weeks, Argentina has faced a severe heat wave, with maximum temperatures exceeding 35°C in vast areas of the country, reaching peaks above 40°C in ten provinces, including Santiago del Estero, where the highest temperature, reaching 45.7°C.
This scenario poses significant challenges for agriculture, exacerbating water stress in essential crops such as corn, soybeans and sunflower. Furthermore, they are in critical stages of development, ranging from vegetative growth to flowering.
The combination of intense heat and the absence of significant rainfall has resulted in a drastic reduction in soil water reserves, a fundamental element for maintaining the health and development of crops. Although the general condition of crops is considered good, signs of water stress are already evident in certain areas, which could lead to a decrease in productivity and the final quality of agricultural products.
In Argentina, planting of grains and oilseeds is almost completed. The sunflower harvest is advancing, with a focus on early maturing in the north.
Progress of crops
Corn: In the province of Buenos Aires, an intermediate stage is observed between vegetative growth and flowering. On the other hand, in Córdoba, Entre Ríos, La Pampa and Santa Fé, the varieties planted early have already started the grain filling process. Furthermore, late varieties are at a transition point, lying between vegetative growth and flowering.
Soy: The first harvest occurs mainly between vegetative growth and flowering. To the north of the planted area there are already grain filling lots. The second crop is mostly in vegetative growth, with areas to the north of the planted area in flowering.
Sunflower: The crop is between flowering and grain filling in most of the planted area. Mature plots can already be seen in the northern areas (Santa Fé, Chaco, Santiago del Estero).
Source: Gabriel Rodrigues | agrolink
