Wisconsin Crop Conditions Remain Mostly Strong in July

By Blake Jackson

According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Wisconsin had an average of 4.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending July 13. Rainfall across parts of the state caused delays in hay and forage harvesting activities.

Topsoil moisture levels were reported as 0% very short, 9% short, 73% adequate, and 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture followed a similar trend, with 3% very short, 12% short, 71% adequate, and 14% surplus.

Corn silking reached 13%, which is one day behind this time last year but one day ahead of the five-year average. Overall corn condition was rated 78% good to excellent, a slight improvement from the previous week.

Soybeans were 44% blooming, placing them seven days ahead of last year and in line with the five-year average. Around 5% of soybean plants were setting pods. The soybean crop condition was rated 74% good to excellent, down one percentage point from last week.

Winter wheat progress continued, with 92% of the crop coloring. Condition ratings rose slightly to 72% good to excellent. Oats were 88% headed, with 53% coloring, running one day ahead of both last year and the average. Oat conditions remained steady at 81% good to excellent.

Potato harvest began in some parts of the state, and the crop condition was strong, with 89% rated good to excellent.

The second alfalfa hay cutting reached 68% completion, slightly ahead of last year but just behind the average pace. Third cuttings began in some areas. Hay was rated 80% good to excellent, and pasture condition was 70% good to excellent.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-frankoppermann