News

Michigan farmers thankful for last week’s rain

Many Michigan farmers received much-needed rainfall last week.  As of Sunday, corn and soybean fields started to show some improvement after the rains. 

Twenty-two percent of Michigan’s corn is silking, which is much farther along than last week but still behind average.  About 53% of the corn is in good to excellent condition, with 32% in fair condition.

Seven percent of the state’s soybeans are setting pods.  About 50% of the soybeans are in good to excellent condition, with 31% in fair condition.

Fruit harvesting continues across Michigan.  Tart cherry harvesting wrapped up in the Southwest and began in the Northwest.  Good blueberry size and quality were reported in the Western and Southwestern parts of the state.  USDA reporters say apples are about 30 millimeters and sizing quickly. 

Early sweetcorn harvesting is beginning in Southern Michigan.

Melon and cucumber growers have been treating for downy mildew in several areas.