PR Harvest 2025/26: Drought reduces the potential of second-crop corn.

The Department of Rural Economy of Paraná (Deral) released this Tuesday (May 5th) the weekly bulletin of Weather and Crop Conditions referring to the period from April 28th to May 4th. The report confirms the completion of the soybean harvest in the state, points to losses in the second corn crop due to water stress, and highlights the progress of wheat planting, favored by the recent soil moisture.

In soybeans, productivity varied throughout the cycle, influenced by weather conditions. In some regions, recent rains have hampered the completion of fieldwork in specific areas. Sales continue at a slow pace.

In the second corn crop, the fields are showing medium to good development, with some areas in the flowering and fruiting stages. Despite improved water conditions in recent weeks, which helped reduce plant stress, Deral indicates that losses are already consolidated and that yield potential is limited in some areas. With increased humidity, producers also report a reduction in caterpillar pressure. The first corn crop harvest is practically complete in the state.

Winter crops are progressing.

Wheat planting has gained momentum in Paraná, driven by improved soil moisture. According to Deral, the areas already planted show good initial development. Even so, there is a trend towards a reduction in the cultivated area, influenced by market factors and production costs.

Barley planting has not yet begun, but is expected to start in the coming weeks. Expansion is anticipated in some regions, contingent on weather and economic conditions.

Planting of black and white oats has already begun in parts of the state and should intensify in the coming days, also favored by recent rains. The planted crops show good initial development.

Other cultures

The irrigated rice harvest is progressing as expected, with good operational performance. However, prices remain under pressure and are considered unattractive compared to production costs.

In coffee plantations, the fruiting and grain-filling stage is considered positive. The harvest began punctually and should gradually gain momentum in the coming weeks.

The sugarcane harvest has also begun in some regions, with productivity within normal levels and operations proceeding according to schedule.

The second-crop beans are showing fair to good development, with improvement following the return of the rains. Harvesting has already begun in some areas, with results below expectations in the regions most affected by the drought. Planting has been completed, but with a reduced area.

Among the vegetables, crops such as lettuce, broccoli, beetroot, kale, cabbage, and arugula are showing good development, benefiting from the milder climate and the return of rainfall, ensuring a regular supply.

Cassava harvesting continues at a satisfactory pace in areas with two growing cycles, while newer areas are receiving cultivation treatments. Despite the good production performance, prices remain low, generating dissatisfaction among producers.

The second-crop potato is in the vegetative development phase, with improved conditions following the rains. In some regions, there has been progress in fruiting.

Pastures recover.

Pastures are showing significant recovery, with increased vigor and green mass availability following the return of rains to the state.