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Rain and frosts plague Michigan farmers

Sporadic rain last week in Michigan prevented farmers from getting a jump on fieldwork.

Williamston’s Scott Turner tells Brownfield soils have been too cool and wet for major planting progress.

“Right now on corn and soybeans, we’re 5 to 10 percent planted,” he shares. “Our goal is to start the last week of April. We’re satisfied where we’re at, but if we don’t get going pretty soon, then we’re going to feel like we’re getting behind.”

The USDA says corn is now four percent planted and soybeans are at even percent, ahead of last year and in line with the average.

Sugarbeets are now 49 percent planted, 17 percent emerged, while oats are 43 percent planted and 14 percent emerged. Early potato planting is also ahead of schedule.

Winter wheat in Michigan is rated 67 percent good to excellent with 53 percent of the crop jointed, significantly ahead of last year and the five-year average.

Fruit growers are concerned about possible frost damage with apples, tart cherries, and peaches in bloom. Asparagus emergence is expected this week and vegetable transplanting is underway.