By Blake Jackson
Kentucky farmers enjoyed near-normal temperatures and above-average rainfall last week. With 1.23 inches of precipitation, exceeding normal levels by 0.14 inches, crops received a much-needed break from the hot, dry conditions. Average temperatures remained seasonal at 77 degrees.
Soil moisture improved slightly, with 61% of topsoil rated adequate and 60% of subsoil in the same category. While some areas still experience short to very short moisture levels, the recent rain helped alleviate heat stress on crops and livestock.
Fieldwork progressed well with an average of 5.7 suitable days out of a possible seven. Key activities included monitoring row crops, topping tobacco, and harvesting hay.
Corn development is ahead of schedule compared to the five-year average. An estimated 77% of cornfields are now silking, surpassing the usual 71% for this time. Similarly, 42% of corn acreage is in the milking stage, exceeding the typical 38%.
Soybeans are also thriving, with 57% currently blooming compared to the historical average of 47%. Additionally, 32% of soybean fields have begun setting pods, outpacing the usual 24%.
However, precipitation wasn't uniform across the state. Central and Bluegrass regions received less rain, while some areas with excessive rainfall reported higher-than-normal slug activity in soybeans.
Tobacco production continues with 35% of acreage estimated to be blooming and 11% topped. Overall, crop conditions remained stable compared to the previous week.
Pasture health remains a concern. Only 44% of pastures were rated good or excellent, significantly lower than the five-year average of 61%. Recovering from the extended hot and dry period in late June and early July will likely take some time.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wiyadaa
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Tobacco