News

45% of Kentucky corn, 20% of soybeans harvested

Corn and soybean harvest and tobacco cutting were the primary activities last week for farmers in Kentucky.

The USDA says dry conditions persist statewide with growing concern for field crops. Temperatures have remained above normal exacerbating drought stress.

As of Sunday, 45% of the state’s corn crop has been harvested, an increase from 33% the previous week and ahead of the five-year average of 36%.

Soybean harvest is 20% done, up from 11% the week prior and up from the five-year average of 11%.

Tobacco cutting has reached 84% completion, near the five-year average pace of 80%. The condition of housed tobacco has deteriorated with dry conditions, and the lack of moisture is beginning to disrupt the curing process.

USDA says pasture growth has been stunted by dry, hot weather.