News

Warmer temps, more rain impact Wisconsin crops

Temperatures were a bit warmer, but rains continued to hinder progress for Wisconsin farmers last week.  Northwestern Wisconsin was drier, and rains slowed haying and silage harvests from the southwestern part of Wisconsin to the northeast. 

USDA reporters say the warmer temperatures helped corn and soybeans mature, but there are reports of small corn ears and moisture levels over 70%.  Most areas of the state report wet ground conditions preventing fieldwork.

Corn silking is now 96% complete, with 84% of corn in the dough stage.  Fifty-nine percent is dented.  The corn silage harvest is only 15% finished and corn for grain remains about 20 days behind schedule.

Ninety-six percent of soybeans have bloomed, with 92% setting pods and 59% of the beans coloring.  Twenty-four percent are now dropping leaves.

Winter wheat planting is 20% finished.  The potato harvest is 45% complete, and third-crop alfalfa hay is 94% done.