News

Michigan crops still need rain

Most Michigan crops need rain.

WinField United agronomist Jason Roth tells Brownfield about two-thirds of the state has some level of drought.  “I’ve seen corn that looks fairly uniform and still pretty dark green, and I’ve seen some that looks three to four feet tall, tasseled, barren ears and pretty ugly.”

The USDA says corn is now 96 percent silking, 58 percent in the dough stage, 14 percent dented, and condition is 51 percent good to excellent. Soybeans are 94 percent in bloom, 80 percent setting pods, and condition is rated 63 percent good to excellent.

Dry beans are 93 percent blooming, 78 percent setting pods, and 51 percent good to excellent.

Michigan fruit crops are progressing about two weeks ahead of normal. Harvest of early season apples, peaches and blueberries continues.  Harvest of onions, green beans, pickling cumbers and squash is ongoing.  Potato late blight has been confirmed in Monroe County.