Luxembourg's grain harvest began unusually early this year and concluded swiftly, reflecting the severe impact of prolonged dry conditions. The situation is particularly critical for fodder crops, with the third grass cut almost entirely lost.
Many farms have already started dipping into winter feed reserves, raising concerns about supplies in the months ahead. Despite a 10 to 15% increase in prices, grain cultivation remains unprofitable for farmers this season.
There was, however, some positive news for winter rapeseed, spelt, and oats, where both yields and prices have proven satisfactory in contrast to the general trend. Maize results, on the other hand, are highly variable, ranging from good to very poor, depending on local rainfall. Fields intended for maize urgently require additional rain to avert further losses.
Minister of Agriculture Martine Hansen of the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) emphasised the need for Luxembourg's farmers to adapt to the ongoing challenges of climate change. While she could not yet provide specific figures on the damage to grasslands caused by drought this year, the Ministry expects substantial losses across grains, maize, and pastures alike.