Kentucky farmers face warm weather and high rainfall

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky experienced warmer-than-average temperatures and higher-than-normal rainfall over the past week. Weekly precipitation totaled 1.57 inches, which is 0.78 inches above normal. The average temperature was 52°F, exceeding the typical value by 5°F.

Topsoil moisture levels were rated as 2% very short, 12% short, 74% adequate, and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture was reported as 6% very short, 20% short, 68% adequate, and 6% surplus. Farmers had an average of 4.0 suitable days for fieldwork out of the possible seven.

Key activities during the week included tobacco stripping, soybean harvesting, and winter wheat seeding. The state saw considerable rainfall alongside unseasonably warm conditions, which provided relief after a dry October but temporarily slowed fieldwork. Despite the challenges, farmers made progress with the soybean harvest.

The recent rainfall has positively impacted tobacco curing, aiding farmers in the stripping process. Winter wheat progress has been promising, with 83% of the crop planted and 67% emerged, both showing improvement in overall condition.

Additionally, the combination of warm temperatures and precipitation has rejuvenated pastures, providing opportunities for late grazing and alleviating some concerns about winter hay supplies. However, hay quality remains a concern for many farmers as they prepare for the colder months.

As of November 17, 2024, soybean harvesting is 86% complete, up from 83% last week. Tobacco stripping reached 64%, while winter wheat seeding and emergence were at 83% and 67%, respectively, showing steady progress compared to last year and the five-year average.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-wiyadaa