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Most Michigan farmers behind schedule
Photo courtesy of David Koning & Son Farms, finally getting into some fields this week in Michigan’s Thumb.
Planting is still delayed for many Michigan farmers despite a few days of decent weather. The Michigan Ag Statistics Office says about three days were suitable for field work as of May 8th.
Corn planting is 18 percent completed, 34 percent behind the five year average. Only two percent of the crop has emerged, slowed by cool soil temperatures. Soybeans are seven percent planted, 18 percent behind the five year average. Oats are 47 percent planted, 36 percent behind average. Sugarbeets farmers have the most seed in the ground with 90 percent of the crop planted, only six percent behind the five year average. Winter wheat condition remains steady at 72 percent good to excellent and 47 percent of the crop jointed.
Cool weather has slowed tree fruit development for most Michigan growers. Many orchards are in some stage of bloom and report deceased pest activity. Asparagus harvest has started in the southwest. Carrot, tomato, pepper and potato planting is progressing.
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