By Blake Jackson
Kentucky farmers are facing challenges after a week of above-average temperatures and significantly below-normal rainfall.
Precipitation came in at just 0.2 inches, falling short by nearly an inch. Temperatures averaged 80 degrees Fahrenheit, 5 degrees above normal. These conditions caused a decline in both topsoil and subsoil moisture levels across the state.
Despite the dryness, the hot weather allowed for 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork, a welcome change after a wet spring. Farmers capitalized on this opportunity with key activities like harvesting wheat, setting tobacco transplants, and planting soybeans.
Unfortunately, the heat and dryness took a toll on crops. Many row crops are showing signs of stress. Corn planting is nearly complete at 97%, with emergence at 93%. Soybeans are at 86% planted with 74% emerged.
Winter wheat harvest is well underway at 73% complete, significantly ahead of the typical pace. Tobacco transplanting nears completion at 87% of acres set.
Livestock and pastures were also impacted by the hot and dry conditions. Farmers are ensuring access to shade and fresh water to maintain herd health. Pastures that were mostly rated good or excellent last week have declined to 73% good/excellent this week.
Hay cutting progressed well with 88% of the first cutting complete. The hay quality varied, with 11% excellent and 1% rated very poor.
While the dry weather allowed for fieldwork to catch up, Kentucky farmers will be closely monitoring conditions and hoping for rain to support crop health and pastures.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alexeyrumyantsev
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Tobacco