Demand for winter cereal seed is reported to be high this season. A tough growing season, lower spring yields and high straw demand have resulted in many growers opting to increase winter crop area this year.

Winter barley seed in particular is in high demand and supply of commonly grown varieties such as Cassia in coming under pressure. Winter oat area could also increase this year.

Seed supply will be tight for winter and spring oats although this many not materialise until the spring sowing season.

The message from the recent Goldcrop technical briefing was for growers to contact suppliers as soon as possible in relation to seed requirements this season.