By Blake Jackson
Kentucky experienced a dry week with above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall. Precipitation totaled 0.21 inches, falling short of the normal 0.61 inches. Average temperatures reached 74 degrees, 6 degrees above normal.
The lack of moisture has significantly impacted topsoil and subsoil moisture levels. Topsoil moisture was rated 34% very short, 43% short, 22% adequate, and 1% surplus.
Subsoil moisture was rated 30% very short, 48% short, 22% adequate, and 0% surplus. Despite the dry conditions, farmers were able to utilize an average of 6.6 days for fieldwork out of a possible seven.
Harvesting corn and soybeans remained the primary activities for the week. Dry weather has hindered field crop growth and raised concerns about yields.
Temperatures have remained above normal, exacerbating drought stress. While some rain arrived over the weekend, it was insufficient to improve the overall outlook. In some areas, water sources are drying up, and the ground is cracking.
Corn production varies significantly due to the uneven impact of drought. The soybean harvest is progressing well, aided by the dry conditions.
Despite the increasing drought, corn and soybean conditions remain mostly good. Tobacco cutting continues, but the dry weather has hampered the curing process for housed tobacco.
Pasture growth has been stunted by the dry, hot weather. Conditions are mostly fair, but there is concern for winter hay stocks.
Many farmers have had to supplement their livestock due to limited hay yields. Water has become a significant issue, with some natural sources drying up. Farmers are hauling water to livestock in affected areas.
Crop progress for the week ending September 22, 2024, shows that 96% of corn is dented, 85% is mature, and 45% has been harvested. For soybeans, 79% are coloring, 55% are dropping leaves, and 20% have been harvested. Tobacco cutting has reached 84%, and winter wheat seeding is at 1%.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-banksphotos
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Tobacco