RS 2025/26 Harvest: corn has expansion in cultivated area

The 2025/2026 summer harvest in Rio Grande do Sul begins with a positive outlook for corn, which is expected to see increased production, while other crops maintain stable growth. Projections from Emater/RS, released during the Breakfast with the Press at the 48th Expointer, indicate an expansion in cultivated area and normal productivity for different regions of the state.

The state's largest corn-producing region, Santa Rosa, is expected to plant 137.501 hectares, with an expected average yield of 8.240 kg/ha. Most of the crops planted in the second half of August are in the early stages of emergence, and those planted early are showing good development.

In total, corn will be cultivated on an area of ​​785.030 hectares, with an average yield of 7.376 kg/ha, resulting in an estimated production of 5,79 million tons—a 9,45% increase over the previous harvest. Factors favoring growth include high income per hectare, development programs, the possibility of successive crops, and higher prices than last year.

Planting progress varies depending on soil, terrain, and temperature regime. Rainfall between August and early September ensured adequate moisture, accelerating germination and plant establishment. In the Caxias do Sul region, the forecast is for 93.020 hectares with a productivity of 7.546 kg/ha. In Campos de Cima da Serra and Aparados da Serra, planting will be delayed due to the altitude and lower temperatures.

For corn silage, the projected area is expected to grow by almost 3%, totaling 366 hectares, with an estimated productivity of 38 kg/ha, resulting in 14 million tons—an 8,29% increase over the previous harvest. This growth is driven by the importance of preserved feed for herd maintenance and regional sales, including for beef cattle.

winter crops

Wheat is showing good development and adequate phytosanitary status, with 70% of the crops in the vegetative stage, 20% in flowering, and 10% in grain filling. White oats are also progressing satisfactorily, with more advanced crops in the Northwest and Middle Plateau. Canola responds well to increased solar radiation and temperatures, favoring flowering and natural pollination.

Vegetable and fruit crops

In the Santa Rosa region, the combination of light, mild temperatures, and adequate humidity has favored the growth of vegetables, with increased supply and quality. In the Frederico Westphalen market, leafy greens are showing good growth, but domestic demand has declined in recent days. Pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and cassava are currently being cultivated.

In Pelotas, onion planting is complete on 1.440 hectares, with a tendency to expand direct seeding. In Ijuí, strawberries are blooming profusely, and peaches and nectarines are progressing in fruit development. In the Serra Gaúcha region, grape pruning is nearly complete, with early-ripening varieties beginning to bud.

Pastures 

Native grasslands and perennial summer pastures showed improved forage yields, benefiting from solar radiation, high temperatures, and adequate moisture. Proper management allowed for increased grazing rates, improved pasture quality, and the planting of corn for silage and annual pastures.