News

Michigan field crop quality declines

Michigan farmers finally had a week of ideal conditions at the end of May. The USDA says more than five days were suitable for fieldwork last week, and warm weather and timely rains were good for crop germination.

The USDA says 91 percent of corn is planted, 66 percent is emerged and the crop’s condition dropped five points to 70 percent good to excellent. Soybeans are 75 percent planted, 46 percent emerged, and condition is rated 71 percent good to excellent.  The winter wheat condition improved three points to 74 percent good to excellent, 89 percent of the crop is jointed and 59 percent is headed.

Sugarbeets are 95 percent emerged and condition dropped by more than 40 percent from last week. USDA says the crop is now rated 36 percent good to excellent.  Only three percent of dry beans have been planted, 25 percent behind last year.  Farmers have 35 percent of the alfalfa crop harvested for first cutting.

Michigan’s fruit crop is rapidly maturing and vineyards with damage from a May freeze are reporting a significant recovery on secondary shoots. Asparagus harvest continues with farmers reporting an excellent crop quality.