News

Michigan planting nears halfway

Michigan farmers made headway on planting last week between intermittent rain showers.

USDA says farmers have planted 46 percent of corn, 42 percent of soybeans, 78 percent of oats, and 98 percent of sugarbeets—all maintaining an ahead of average pace.

Winter wheat condition dropped two percent to 71 good to excellent with 83 percent of the crop jointed.  Sugarbeets are rated 77 percent good to excellent.

Cool, wet weather slowed fruit development and pollination while extending bloom last week.  Asparagus harvest has started in scattered locations but is mostly weather delayed while potato and vegetable transplanting continues.