European Drought Could Cut Grain Output by 9 Million Tonnes
Europe’s extreme heat and drought are expected to cause major agricultural losses.
Current estimates indicate that at least 9 million tonnes of grain may be lost, while maize, sunflower, vegetable and cereal production is also under pressure.
The UK is facing the possibility of its worst harvest on record, while farmers in several European countries are reporting lower yields and rising costs.
Multiple crops are being affected
The damage extends across a wide range of agricultural products.
Current risks include:
- lower wheat and barley yields
- reduced grain maize output
- smaller sunflower harvests
- weaker soybean production
- losses in vegetables and salad crops
- lower potato output
- earlier grape harvests
Sunflower production forecasts have been reduced, which may add further pressure to vegetable oil markets.
Water stress reduces fertilizer efficiency
Under drought conditions, plant roots may be unable to absorb nutrients efficiently.
This can reduce:
- nitrogen-use efficiency
- phosphate uptake
- potassium availability
- crop response to application
- expected yield return
Additional fertilizer cannot compensate for insufficient soil moisture or severe heat damage.
Application programmes must reflect actual water availability, crop condition and realistic yield potential.
Fertilizer demand may become more uneven
Some growers may invest in precision nutrition, irrigation and soil management to protect high-value crops.
Others may:
- reduce planted area
- delay purchases
- lower application rates
- switch crops
- prioritise selected fields
This can create significant differences in fertilizer demand between regions and crop sectors.
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