News

Hot and dry conditions continue in Michigan

Scattered rains have provided modest relief to heat stressed crops in Michigan.

The USDA says corn is now 68 percent silking with condition 48 percent good to excellent. Soybeans are 74 percent in bloom and condition is rated 54 percent good to excellent.  The wheat crop is 87 percent harvested.

Dry beans are 63 percent blooming and 54 percent good to excellent. The second cutting of alfalfa is 74 percent complete.

Scattered rain and cooler temperatures have increased insect pressure in fruit crops. Apricot, sweet and tart cherry harvest has ended in the southwest.  Raspberry and blueberry harvest continues with growers reporting smaller fruit.  Harvest of bell peppers, sweet corn and peas is also under way.  Downy mildew has been found in cucumbers and melons in Berrien County.