East central Michigan field crop regional report – May 9, 2013
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EmailProducers have been very patient waiting for fields to dry. Sunshine and warm weather has permitted field work to now be in full motion.
Weather
The first week of May had no precipitation with highs in the mid-70s to low 80s according to weather information recorded at the Ithaca Enviro-weather station. This has allowed soils to dry and field work to begin. Many producers have waited patiently and at mid-week are now reporting the soils are working up very good.
Commodity reports
Wheat is in the Feeke’s stage 5-6. Wheat fields are looking significantly better with an application of nitrogen and the warmer weather. Some producers have spotted oats in the damaged areas. A few fields with major damage will be worked up and planted to another crop.
Good wheat field in Gratiot County, taken May 9, 2013. Photo credit: Dan Rossman, MSU Extension
Sugarbeets have been the top priority to get planted. As of May 9, it is estimated that over 80 percent of the sugarbeets are in. Very few of the early sugarbeets had to be replanted. Soil conditions are good.
Corn planting is now in full swing. The amount planted varies across the region from just starting to 35 percent complete. This is a rapidly moving target. Producers can get a lot planted in just a few days.
Soybean planting has been minimal so far. It is expected to take off next week.
Rye cover crop is 12 to 18 inches tall. This is the ideal stage to work into the soil as a green manure crop.
Rye cover crop field taken May 9, 2013. Photo credit: Dan Rossman, MSU Extension
Other Michigan State University Extension field crop regional reports from this week:
