By Blake Jackson
Kentucky agriculture faced a week of above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall. While precipitation fell short by about half an inch, planting continued for key crops like corn, soybeans, and tobacco.
- Temperatures: Weekly temperatures averaged 64 degrees Fahrenheit, exceeding normal by 7 degrees.
- Precipitation: Rainfall totaled only 0.65 inches, falling short of the usual amount by 0.51 inches.
Despite the dry conditions, farmers made steady progress in planting:
- Corn: Planting progressed well, with 23% of the crop now planted, keeping pace with previous years. Eight percent of planted corn has already emerged.
- Soybeans: Planting of soybeans is underway with 13% of the crop planted.
- Tobacco: Seeding of tobacco transplants reached 81% completion, with most transplants in good condition. The average height of transplants is mostly under 4 inches.
While some winter wheat has begun heading (20%), overall condition remains good. The average height of wheat is currently 20 inches.
Recent warm temperatures improved pastures slightly, with alfalfa averaging 11 inches in height. Further improvement is expected as temperatures stabilize.
Kentucky fruits experienced minimal freeze damage:
- Apples: 1% severe, 2% moderate, 21% light, and 76% with no damage.
- Peaches: 3% severe, 6% moderate, 18% light, and 73% with no damage.
Soil Moisture and Fieldwork
Topsoil moisture ratings were: 1% very short, 8% short, 74% adequate, and 17% surplus. Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern: 1% very short, 11% short, 75% adequate, and 13% surplus.
With an average of 4.9 days suitable for fieldwork out of a possible seven, farmers capitalized on favorable conditions for planting activities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Tobacco, Fruits and Vegetables