California Crop Report – June 12, 2026

Seasonal Outlook & Market Conditions

The Pacific Seed Association (PSA) is sharing the following snapshot of current crop conditions and market signals in California, based on recent field observations and market feedback from across the state. This report highlights small grains, permanent crops, field crops, forage grasses, and key feed and grain price indicators as of mid‑June 2026.

Small grains

Fall and winter small grain plantings came in below average, as early rains in October and November combined with depressed feed and grain prices discouraged new acreage. Crop development has been steady overall, but not without challenges, and the season has tested both genetics and management.

A mild winter accompanied by several weeks of dense fog created disease pressure not seen in many years, including significant rust pressure and rare sightings of septoria. Spring weather added further complications: a record‑setting heat wave in March was followed by late rains and wind in April and May, increasing lodging across most fields.

Permanent crops

As seen across much of the country, permanent crops in California have not been immune to broader commodity price declines, with wine grapes, walnuts, and other specialty crops particularly affected. As a result, thousands of acres have been removed from production, with much of that land currently sitting fallow.

Almonds and other stone fruit specialty crops remain a bright spot, continuing to be profitable. The downturn in the permanent crop sector has, in turn, significantly reduced demand for cover crop seed, including forage peas, faba and bell beans, brassicas, and other varieties.

Field crops

Processing tomato plantings continue to decline amid reduced demand and large carryover inventories of paste. Sunflower acreage remains low as several major producers have shifted hybrid production operations to the Pacific Northwest and Europe.

Rice acreage, by contrast, remains strong, with plantings tracking near the upper end of historical averages. This keeps rice an important anchor in California’s field crop mix and a key market for seed suppliers.

Forage grasses and pasture

Demand for perennial and annual forage grasses in California remains above average. With beef prices near all‑time highs, this market has seen a steady increase.

Perennial ryegrass, white clover, tall fescue, and orchardgrass all remain in steady demand as ranchers and producers look to support forage availability and pasture performance. These dynamics highlight the ongoing importance of high‑quality forage seed in California’s livestock sector.

Feed and grain prices at a glance

Silage and hay prices remain depressed, making it difficult for growers to see meaningful return on investment on these crops. However, hay prices are beginning to climb due to falling inventories and quality issues stemming from late‑season rains.

Grain prices have seen a notable recovery from last year, with the current hard red wheat market trading at roughly 210 dollars per ton—an increase of about 25 percent over last year. This improvement may influence planting decisions going into the next season and will be important for PSA members to watch.