Apr 22, 2021
Safrinha Corn Rating in Parana Continues to Decline due to Dryness
Author: Michael Cordonnier/Soybean & Corn Advisor, Inc.
Dry weather in south-central Brazil continues to take a toll on the safrinha corn. The stat of Parana is the second largest safrinha corn producing state in Brazil responsible for approximately 16% of the total safrinha production according to Conab's April Crop Report.
The planting of the safrinha corn in Parana was delayed the most in recent memory due to a delay in the soybean planting. According to data from Geosys Brasil, by the end of February, only 38% of the safrinha corn had been planted in Parana. By comparison, 61% of the safrinha corn had been planted by the end of February 2020. This growing season, 58% of the safrinha corn was planted during the second half of March. The ideal planting window for safrinha corn in Parana usually closes by February 20th.
According to the Department of Rural Economics (Deral), the safrinha corn in Parana is 2% germinating/emerging, 76% in vegetative development, 16% pollinating, and 6% filling grain. The corn is rated 7% poor, 31% average, and 62% good. The percent of the crop rated good is down from 76% last week and 92% two weeks ago.
Geosys Brasil also reported that the vegetative index for the safrinha corn in Parana is one of the lowest in recent years indicating a poor start for the crop. The soil moisture for the safrinha corn areas of the state is the lowest in 30 years. The current soil moisture is lower than at this time last year when the safrinha corn yield ended up 12% below trend.
Other states in south-central Brazil are also suffering from dry weather including Mato Grosso do Sul which accounts for 13% of the safrinha corn production, Goias with 12%, Minas Gerais with 4%, and Sao Paulo with 3%. The largest safrinha corn producing state in Brazil is Mato Grosso which is accounts for 43% of the safrinha production. The safrinha corn harvest will start in June and conclude in August.