The last week saw beneficial rains for most Minnesota farmers, paving the way for nearly 5 days suitable for essential fieldwork activities. As reported by the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, farmers actively harvested small grains and started processing corn for silage.
Moisture supplies show a mixed scenario. Topsoil has 19% of areas very short of moisture, while 39% report being short. On the brighter side, 41% had adequate moisture with a tiny 1% experiencing surplus. Similar conditions were mirrored in subsoil moisture ratings.
Corn has shown promising progress. About 77% of corn crops have reached the dough stage, which is ahead compared to previous years. Corn's overall condition seems promising with a 44% rating of being good to excellent. The early stages of harvesting corn for silage have begun.
Soybean crops are almost entirely in bloom at 96%. A considerable 85% have started setting pods. Their overall health is decent, with 47% rated from good to excellent.
Other crops like barley and oats are in the midst of their harvest period. Spring wheat is nearing its harvest with 28% already done and showing a good to excellent condition at 48%.
Beans are blooming at 98%, and a majority have started setting pods. Potatoes are at the early 4% harvest stage but boast an impressive 84% good to excellent condition. Other crops like sugarbeets and sunflowers also showcase promising conditions.
Lastly, the second alfalfa hay cutting is almost complete.
All these indicators point to an optimistic future for Minnesota's agriculture, owing to the recent rains and the diligent work of the farming community.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wiyadaa
Categories: Minnesota, Business, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Sugar Beets, Alfalfa, Weather