Kentucky weather impacts crop progress and yields

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky farmers have experienced a week of fluctuating weather conditions. Above-normal temperatures and rainfall characterized the past week, with the state receiving 2.02 inches of precipitation, exceeding the typical amount by 1.06 inches.

The mercury climbed to an average of 79 degrees, two degrees warmer than the norm. These conditions have had a mixed impact on agricultural operations.

Soil moisture levels have improved significantly, with 71% of topsoil and 68% of subsoil categorized as adequate or surplus.

However, the distribution of rainfall was uneven, leading to localized flooding in central and eastern Kentucky. Farmers managed to dedicate an average of 4.3 days to fieldwork during the week.

Corn continues to progress at a steady pace, aligning closely with the five-year average. Silking is nearing completion at 90%, followed by 66% in the milking stage, 48% doughing, and 22% denting. The corn crop's condition has shown slight improvement, with 68% rated as good or excellent.

Soybeans are also developing favorably, slightly ahead of the five-year average. Blooming has reached 74%, with 54% of plants setting pods. Early indications of coloring have emerged in 3% of the soybean fields.

Tobacco production has encountered challenges due to the inconsistent rainfall. Topping has been completed on 38% of the crop, and 62% is currently blooming, both slightly behind the five-year average.

The combined impact of high temperatures and heavy rainfall in certain areas has led to a slight decline in tobacco condition, with 70% now rated as good or excellent.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-frankoppermann