By Blake Jackson
Kentucky farmers are navigating a wet spring after experiencing above-average temperatures and precipitation over the past week. Rainfall reached 1.71 inches, exceeding normal levels by 0.65 inches, while temperatures averaged a pleasant 61 degrees, 6 degrees warmer than usual.
While these warm temperatures are welcome, the heavy rainfall likely slowed down planting activities. Currently, only 3 out of 7 days were suitable for fieldwork. Soil moisture levels are favorable, with topsoil rated 6% short, 69% adequate, and 25% surplus. Subsoil moisture reflects a similar trend, with 10% short, 71% adequate, and 19% surplus.
Corn planting progress is slightly behind the 5-year average, reaching 9% compared to the usual 11% at this point. Soybean planting also sits at 8%.
Tobacco growers, however, are making steady progress with transplanting, with 60% completed. The condition of these transplants is promising, with 80% rated good and 6% excellent.
Winter wheat is showing improvement as well. The average height is 15 inches, with 8% of the crop already headed. Condition ratings are positive, with 19% excellent and 71% good.
Pasture conditions also benefit from the warm weather and ample rain. While some dryness is evident with 1% rated very poor and 7% poor, the majority of pastures are in fair to good condition (77%).
Kentucky farmers are facing a mixed bag this spring. While the warm temperatures and ample moisture are positive signs for crop growth, the recent wet weather has likely caused some delays in planting activities.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Kentucky, Crops