Wisconsin Ag Connection - Crop Report: Soils are Dryer, But Now Temps Are Too Cool

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Crop Report: Soils are Dryer, But Now Temps Are Too Cool
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 05/28/2008

Wisconsin crop producers seem to have hit another snag in their attempt to have a growing season this year. Cooler temperatures and some areas of frost slowed crop emergence, even though we have seen a dry period in the weather during the past week. The state's agriculture department puts soil moisture conditions at three percent very short, 26 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and seven percent surplus.

The weekly crop report indicates that most counties reported corn planting nearing completion with 80 percent planted and 24 percent emerged. Spraying of pre-emergence herbicides had started. Soybean planting was a little over half-way finished, with planting reported at 55 percent complete and emergence at three percent. Emergence was hindered due to hard, dry soil conditions. Oat planting has neared completion with planting reported at 96 percent complete and 67 percent emerged. Small grains that were planted earlier, including barley, are also emerging. Spring tillage progressed very quickly with the dry conditions and was reported at 87 percent complete.

In most areas, alfalfa was reported as looking excellent and close to harvest. Other areas reported development behind schedule due to the cool temperatures. Winter wheat and winter rye continued to look good, and spring wheat was reported as emerged. Winter wheat conditions were one percent very poor, three percent poor, 24 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 29 percent excellent. Hay fields continue to show slow growth due to below average temperatures and areas of frost. Some hay cutting in the Southcentral and Southeastern areas of the state was reported.

Pea and potato planting was in full swing and nearing completion. Fruit trees were showing blossoms, with some apple trees and strawberries in full bloom. Some peas were being planted, with a report of early peas beginning to bloom. And most peas and vegetables were reported as being planted, although the ground was still too cold for pumpkin planting.

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