Kentucky warm week boosts crop harvest and wheat growth

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky experienced unusually warm and wet conditions over the past week, with temperatures averaging 64°F, which is 15 degrees above the usual.

Rainfall levels were also elevated, with the state seeing an average of 1.88 inches, marking an increase of 1.09 inches above normal.

Topsoil moisture levels reflect these conditions, with ratings showing 65% adequate and 5% surplus, while subsoil moisture was rated as 60% adequate and 3% surplus. With favorable weather, there were an estimated 4.5 days suitable for fieldwork out of a possible seven.

The week’s primary agricultural activities included the continued harvesting of corn and soybeans, along with tobacco stripping and winter wheat planting.

Corn harvest is nearly complete, with 95% of the crop harvested, while soybean harvest stands at 83%, surpassing the five-year average of 77%.

The planting of winter wheat has progressed steadily, with 74% of acres now seeded. The recent rain has benefited wheat germination, which has reached 56% emergence, with 71% of the crop rated in good or excellent condition.

Tobacco stripping is ongoing, with approximately 56% of the crop processed. Additionally, pasture conditions saw a slight improvement over the previous week; currently, 34% of pastures are rated as good or excellent, a 2% rise from the last report.

While rainfall has benefited many areas, some parts of Western Kentucky received over four inches, leading to challenges in mud management and pasture accessibility.

This heavy rain in specific areas created temporary obstacles, although it also provided necessary moisture for crops and pastures across most regions.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic