RS 2024/25 Harvest: soybean harvest progresses, but losses in the field are a concern

Dry weather and high solar radiation boosted the soybean harvest in Rio Grande do Sul, which has already reached 95% of the area. The remaining 5% is still maturing. In corn, 92% of the crops have been harvested, while 5% are still maturing and 3% are in grain filling.

According to Emater/RS, the soybean harvest has been completed in several regions of Planalto and Alto Uruguai. Excessive dew in the morning has delayed the start of field activities. Moisture in the plants increases the risk of losses due to damaged grains.

Productivity ranges from 1 to 2,5 kg/ha, below initial projections. The prolonged drought accelerates natural threshing, leaving grains on the ground. In the West, producers lost an average of 80 kg/ha before harvest.

Proagro and Proagro Mais have streamlined payments, but access remains limited for low-yield crops, especially among small and medium-sized producers who do not have a guaranteed minimum income. The reduction in coverage, depending on the planting window, makes it difficult to compensate for losses.

After harvesting, farmers wait for rain to start winter crops, cover crops and green manure. They also follow soil conservation practices, such as liming and building terraces.

In corn, the harvest is progressing slowly. Crops established in December have not yet completed their cycle. The lack of rain negatively affects grain filling. Even with lower evaporation and the presence of dew, water stress persists.

In areas with recent rainfall, producers have begun planting cover crops. In most of the state, however, dry soil still prevents this practice.