News

Wet weather slowing the start of planting in Arkansas

Moderate to heavy precipitation throughout the state has slowed the start of planting for many Arkansas farmers.  Just 3 percent of the corn crop has been planted, compared to 23 percent last year and the 5-year average of 32 percent, 1 percent of the crop has emerged.  One percent of the rice crop has been planted, compared to 10 percent last year and the 5-year average of 12 percent. Six percent of the winter wheat crop has headed, behind last year’s 9 percent and the 5-year average of 15 percent and 48 percent of the crop is rated good to excellent.  Pasture conditions have benefited from the wet weather, and 43 percent is rated good to excellent.  48 percent of the hay crop is also rated good to excellent.  Topsoil supplies are 100 percent adequate to surplus and Subsoil moisture supplies are 97 percent adequate to surplus.