By Scout Nelson
In Minnesota, the week ending June 9, 2024, presented only 3.0 days suitable for fieldwork, as reported by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Despite challenges from excessive soil moisture, farmers pushed forward with planting, hay cutting, and spraying tasks. Livestock conditions remained stable with no reported issues.
Soil moisture levels showed 0% very short, 2% short, 64% adequate, and 34% surplus in topsoil, with subsoil moisture at 1% very short, 4% short, 65% adequate, and 30% surplus. These conditions illustrate the challenges and benefits of the current moisture levels for different crops' needs.
Corn planting was nearly complete at 96%, with 84% emergence and a condition rating of 74% good to excellent. Soybeans lagged slightly, planted at 87%, a bit behind schedule compared to last year and the five-year average, with 68% emerged and a condition rating of 71% good to excellent.
Barley and oats also showed significant progress. Barley was 96% planted, 91% emerged, and beginning to head at 2%, with a decrease in condition to 76% good to excellent. Oats were 95% emerged, 66% jointing, and 14% headed, rated 77% good to excellent.
Spring wheat progress was robust, with 96% emerged, 58% jointing, and 1% heading, although the condition dropped to 74% good to excellent. Other crops such as dry edible beans, alfalfa hay, potatoes, and sunflowers also made substantial planting and emergence progress.
Overall crop conditions across the state varied, with potatoes rated 84% good to excellent and sugarbeets at 67% good to excellent. The general condition for all hay was 75% good to excellent, and pasture conditions were similarly strong at 73% good to excellent.
This report underscores the resilience and adaptability of Minnesota farmers as they manage their crops amid fluctuating weather conditions, striving to maintain optimal growth and health across various agricultural sectors.
Photo Credit -usda
Categories: Minnesota, Crops