Kentucky farms struggle with dry spell - crop concerns rise

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky has faced cooler temperatures and below-average rainfall over the past week, with precipitation totaling just 0.05 inches, significantly below the normal 0.73 inches.

The average temperature for the week was 70 degrees, which is 6 degrees cooler than usual. As a result, topsoil moisture levels are reported as 10% very short, 34% short, 54% adequate, and 2% surplus.

Subsoil moisture is similarly impacted, with 8% very short, 35% short, 55% adequate, and 2% surplus. Despite the dry conditions, farmers have been able to make good progress in fieldwork, with an average of 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork.

Current farming activities include cutting hay and topping and cutting tobacco. The dry weather has enabled these tasks to proceed efficiently, though many areas are experiencing increasing moisture deficits.

There are concerns about crop yields in the driest regions, with rain being urgently needed. The corn harvest is expected to accelerate soon, with only 1% of the crop harvested to date.

Some later-planted corn and double-crop soybeans have struggled due to the lack of rain, though both crops are still in mostly good condition, despite some drought stress.

Tobacco crops are progressing well, with nearly all in bloom and topping underway. Cutting of tobacco is expected to ramp up as topping concludes.

Pasture conditions remain mostly good, but growth has been limited by the dry weather. If drought conditions continue, farmers may need to supplement pastures with hay. The hay crop is generally in good condition, though yields may vary.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-banksphotos