Rainy weather hurts some crops, helps others

Farming is tricky business, especially when one of your major inputs is the ficklest phenomenon of all — weather. Temperatures, frost, hail and rain swirl in a dance that can yield a bountiful harvest or damaged and diseased crops.

Across Southern Wisconsin in the past 30 days, fields have gotten 7 to 10 inches of rain (sometimes several inches at one time). The 30-year average for this time of year is 3.88 inches. Farmers have had difficulty accessing fields for planting, weeding and harvesting. Some fields have flooded, and certain crops don’t do well with this much moisture.

I’ve learned from talking to local CSA growers, the biggest casualty this year will be tomatoes. If you see fewer tomatoes or higher prices at the farmers market, this is why. Disease is running rampant and yields are down.

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection puts out a weekly Wisconsin Pest Bulletin. It’s an interesting read that has specific info on corn, soybeans, fruits, vegetables and more about what pests are becoming an issue and recommendations on control.

The bulletin says that southern Wisconsin counties are experiencing septoria leaf spot (I have this in my own garden), where tomato leaves get brown spots, turn yellow and completely wither, starting from the ground up. A copper spray may help, but make sure to remove affected plant material at the end of the season and plant tomatoes in a different spot next year. Also, giving plants more space for air circulation helps, especially when there are heavy rains and humid weather. Late blight is also starting to take hold in some areas.

Whether you are a home gardener, a farmers market shopper or get a CSA delivery, know that farmers and their crops are susceptible to the elements and it will affect your salad. The good news is, while some fruits and vegetables may be affected negatively, others will still thrive. I am hearing about bumper crops of cucumbers and summer squash (Can zucchini ever be stopped?).

This recipe takes advantage of what is thriving this year and is a twist on Mexican sweet corn that has lime juice, chile, mayo and cilantro. These same ingredients, combined with crunchy cucumber, make for a flavorful side dish to grilled meat or tacos.

RECIPE:Mexican Street Corn Salad

Anna Thomas Bates is a mother and writer living in southern Wisconsin. Email her at tallgrasskitchen@gmail.com.