Rain slowed winter crop sowing across southern Romania and northern Bulgaria, according to the European Commission.
Heavy rainfall in southern Romania and northern Bulgaria in early October led to wet soil and limited fieldworks. Total rainfall between 1 October and 15 November was at least 70mm greater than the long-term average across these regions, according to the commission's weather model.
Although conditions have become dryer since mid-October in Romania and Bulgaria, sowing remains significantly delayed and the optimal sowing window will soon close, the commission said. But warmer temperatures, alongside less than two days of sizeable rainfall, is expected between 20-29 November, which could allow farmers to speed up planting under more favourable conditions.
Only earlier sown grain crops in Romania and Bulgaria are established and emerged uniformly, the commission said. Late-planted winter crops start the winter underdeveloped, and as a result, be particularly vulnerable to frost damage.
In France, favourable weather and soil conditions have supported planting and early winter grain development. Rapeseed crops are developing in line with the average pace and are supported by enough rainfall and mild temperatures.
