WITH widespread rain wanted in many districts, farmers are still preparing for an autumn break to sow oats or dual-purpose crops like Wedgetail wheat or canola.
Remembering last season with the general shortage of oat seed, more orders were placed early this season, allowing suppliers to secure sufficient seed.
But some farmers have not been able to be supplied with oat seed, and have turned to Wedgetail wheat as an alternative.
Elders Forbes agronomist Ben Hawken said oat seed supply in the Parkes/Forbes district was reasonable, but many farmers had sown canola or grazing wheat as an alternative.
"If rain came early there could be a lot of canola and dual-purpose canola sown along with winter wheat," he said.
"Winter wheat was a really good performer last season and a lot of seed was retained, so I expect a fair amount of country will be sown.
"But everybody is hanging out for rain."
Further south, in the Lockhart district, the story was similar.
A good supply of both types of canola seed was available, although a shortfall was expected in other winter crops.
Delta Ag's Lockhart manager John Fox said early rain would result in a lot of country sown.
"But some winter wheat and barley varieties will be in short supply, and pasture seed will be tight, otherwise there is not a problem," Mr Fox said.
In all areas availability of fertiliser is assured at the moment.
Orders were confirmed during January when the price was low, but there is still sufficient fertiliser available at a higher price.
