Despite a week of good weather, arable farmers were unable to complete the planting activities in the Netherlands. Figures from Aviko Potato show that. Still, a lot of work has been done. This also applies to other European countries, with the exception of the United Kingdom (UK).
At the end of week 18, there were still several Dutch cultivation areas where the counter stood at more than 50%. On reference date May 11, this was at least 80% everywhere. Only North Holland is just below that. A few percent still need to be planted in the southwest and southeast of the country. In East Brabant and Limburg it is slightly more.
Downpours
The northern cultivation areas are also not ready yet. Aviko estimates the score at more than 95%. Considering the large quantities precipitation the leg work is most likely on hold for the time being. It is mainly the very large potato growers who are still busy. A lot of water also fell in the southeast of the Netherlands. However, weather maps show that this has mainly been the case in Germany.
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Belgium and England
Potato growers in Flanders have planted 7% of their area in the past 25 days. Especially in West Flanders, quite a few potatoes still need to be planted, but in Wallonia the planting is almost ready. Only in the east of Walloon Belgium are some companies still active. Sometimes out of necessity, because people do not have enough seed potatoes. Despite good weather in the UK, a lot of work still needs to be done there. Planting has now progressed to a good 60%.
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In 2014 and 2015, the planting work had already been completed 2 weeks ago, Aviko reports. Compared to the 2016 season, work in the north is well ahead. In the southwest and southeast there is some noticeable lag. A lack of precipitation and the dry, sunny outlook will most likely ensure that planting can be completed as far as possible this week.