By Blake Jackson
Kentucky experienced cooler-than-average temperatures and lower rainfall during the week ending May 11, 2025. Farmers made planting progress despite challenging conditions, with the state averaging 3.8 days suitable for fieldwork.
Temperatures across Kentucky averaged 60°F, about 3 degrees below normal and 6 degrees cooler than the previous week. Highs reached 84°F at Louisa, while the lowest temperature was 36°F at Owingsville.
Precipitation totalled 0.42 inches statewide, 0.83 inches below normal, and just 34% of the average. Some areas, especially Bluegrass, saw as little as 0.12 inches of rain.
Soil moisture remained supportive, with topsoil rated 78% adequate and 21% surplus. Subsoil was rated 81% adequate and 18% surplus. These conditions allowed steady planting of corn, soybeans, and tobacco during dry windows midweek and over the weekend.
Though progress was made, corn and soybean planting remain slightly behind average. With crops beginning to emerge, activity is expected to continue as weather allows.
Tobacco setting has begun, and transplant supplies are fully adequate. Transplant heights were reported as 27% under 2 inches, 35% between 2 to 4 inches, and 38% over 4 inches.
Vegetable planting faced some delays due to saturated soils. Winter wheat condition continued to improve, with 76% now headed and recovery noted after April’s flooding.
Pastures showed week-to-week improvement thanks to recent rainfall and warming temperatures, though low-lying fields with flooding remained problematic for livestock.
“These weekly reports provide vital insights to help us track and plan our fieldwork more efficiently,” said a Kentucky farmer.
Despite the weather challenges, Kentucky farmers remain optimistic, making steady progress and benefiting from sufficient soil moisture as spring planting continues.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Crops, Corn, Soybeans