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Michigan plantings, crop progress behind

 

Wet, cool conditions have delayed alfalfa harvest for Michigan growers.

Michigan State University Extension forage specialist Kim Cassida says the earliest growers could start harvesting is by the end of the week, if it says warm enough, long enough.  “At least in this area, alfalfa broke dormancy very late compared to what we expect, but it has made up for lost time in a big way.”

Farmers continued planting progress between intermittent rains last week in Michigan. The USDA says corn is 50 percent planted, behind last year and the five-year average.  Soybeans are 29 percent planted, also behind average. Oats in are 66 percent planted and sugarbeets are at 97 percent.

Winter wheat condition remained at 66 percent good to excellent. The crop is now 52 percent jointed, close to average.

Warmer temperatures have helped Michigan’s fruit crop advance close to normal. Some areas remain nearly a week behind.  Wet weather is causing concern for diseases in apples and blueberries.  Sweet cherries, apples and early season strawberries are in bloom.

Planting of tomatoes and cole crops was delayed in the Southeast because of wet conditions. Potato planting is also underway.  Asparagus harvest has begun in the Southwest but is slow in wet fields.