Rains benefit second corn crop again

Above-average rainfall should benefit second-crop corn crops, especially those in the grain-filling stage, in areas of the Central-West, South and Southeast in the coming weeks, according to a survey by EarthDaily Agro, a company specialized in monitoring agricultural areas using satellite data. The two climate models - ECMWF and GFS - point to precipitation that favors production potential, especially in regions where humidity has been a limiting factor. 

Forecasts indicate rising soil moisture levels in regions of Paraná, parts of São Paulo and Mato Grosso do Sul. However, in areas with a tendency for drier weather, such as Mato Grosso, soil moisture should gradually decrease in the coming days, without, however, posing significant risks to crops. 

In Mato Grosso do Sul, the vegetation index (NDVI) remains at high and satisfactory levels. The recent return of rains has helped to interrupt the downward trend in soil moisture and should lead to a gradual increase in moisture levels in the coming days. This scenario should provide significant water relief, favoring the development of second-crop corn crops, especially in areas where the crop is still in the reproductive stages. 

The ECMWF and GFS models predict below-average temperatures in the South and part of the Southeast of the country. Last week, the West of Paraná recorded average temperatures below 6°C, creating favorable conditions for the formation of frost in specific microclimates. In the states of the Central-West, temperatures should remain close to normal and there is a low risk of frost in the short term, with the potential to affect the second corn crop. 

EarthDaily Agro crop analyst Felippe Reis explains that, in the last 10 days, the states that had the highest rainfall levels were Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, with accumulated rainfall ranging from 30 mm to over 230 mm. “In the South, heavy rains may have negatively impacted the progress of wheat planting, by making access to arable areas difficult. On the other hand, rainfall benefits crops already planted, ensuring adequate levels of soil moisture and favoring the initial development of crops,” he says. 

The ECMWF model forecasts indicate a reduction in rainfall volumes in Rio Grande do Sul, favoring the resumption of field activities. On the other hand, the GFS model signals the possibility of more intense rainfall at the end of the first half of June, requiring attention and planning on the part of producers.