November 2, 2010

Safrinha Corn Acreage in Mato Grosso Could Decline

The delayed soybean planting in Mato Grosso could result in lower safrinha corn acreage in the state. Generally speaking, if soybeans are planted during the month of November, there is not enough time to plant a second crop of corn after the soybean harvest without risking significant yield losses in the corn. The state of Mato Grosso planted 1.94 million hectares of safrinha corn last year which was the largest safrinha corn acreage in Brazil.

As of this past weekend, soybean planting in the state was 33% complete which is more than 20 percent behind last year's pace. Estimates are that the safrinha corn acreage in the state might be down as much as 20% from prior estimates.

The two major municipalities in Mato Grosso where safrinha corn is planted are Lucas do Rio Verde and Sorriso. These two municipalities are located in central Mato Grosso and they have planted approximately 36% of their soybeans whereas last year at this time, nearly 60% of the soybeans had already been planted.

Total safrinha corn and cotton acres won't be known until early next year, but I think it is safe to estimate that the 2010/11 safrinha acreage in Mato Grosso will be below earlier expectations.