PR 2025/26 Crop: Water stress worries soybean farmers

Soybean crops in Paraná are going through critical stages of flowering, fruiting, and grain filling, a period of greatest water demand, amid concerns about water stress and high temperatures in several regions. According to the Department of Rural Economy (Deral), these conditions may limit productive potential. In the north of the state, high moisture content in the crop residue favors pressure from Asian soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi), requiring intensive phytosanitary management.

The harvest of soybean Harvesting has already started slowly in some areas and is progressing at a faster pace in others, benefiting from the dry weather. There is an expectation of improved results as the machines advance, although producers are watching the drop in market prices with apprehension.

No cornThe first crop is progressing towards maturation and harvesting, with yields above historical averages in several regions and good grain quality. Meanwhile, planting of the second crop is progressing as summer areas are cleared, showing good initial germination. In parts of the state, however, lack of soil moisture and delays in soybean harvesting are beginning to restrict the pace of planting.

No irrigated riceThe harvest is proceeding according to schedule, with areas in good phytosanitary and developmental condition. The main challenge, however, is the unfavorable market environment, with prices and trade policies putting pressure on profitability.

A sugar cane It exhibits vigorous vegetative development in parts of the state, benefiting from appropriate technical management and good use of available moisture. However, bean The first harvest is practically complete in several regions, with improved productivity and price recovery due to grain quality. The second harvest, however, is facing difficulties, with planting limited by the scarcity of soil moisture.

Na vegetable farmingThe harvesting and marketing flow is maintained, but open-field crops are beginning to show signs of water stress in some areas, requiring greater attention to irrigation. The harvest of onion The harvest concluded with yields within expectations, however, low prices led some producers to opt for storage.

For potatoMeanwhile, work is focused on preparing the soil for the second crop, while cassava harvesting continues in the Northwest and West, with yields within estimates but prices falling.

A alfalfa It shows good vigor and development in the North and Northwest, although the continuation of the regional drought may compromise the crop. The harvest of Apple Production is advancing with high levels in the South, but producers report difficulty in hiring labor. Meanwhile, tobacco The harvest is proceeding normally, favored by the stable weather in the South and Southwest.

Nas pasturesOverall, there is a good supply of green forage, ensuring adequate feed for the herd. However, the water deficit in some areas of the South and North is raising concerns, as the persistence of the drought could limit the recovery of these areas.