New York farmers report strong harvest progress this fall

By Blake Jackson

The National Agricultural Statistics Service reported that, for the week ending October 13, 2024, New York farmers had 4.5 days suitable for fieldwork.

Topsoil moisture was rated 86% adequate and 12% surplus, with no areas reporting very short conditions. Subsoil moisture was similarly stable, with 90% adequate and 7% surplus.

The apple harvest reached 74%, progressing from last week’s 63%, ahead of both last year and the five-year average.

Cabbage harvesting stood at 83%, slightly trailing behind previous years. Corn dented reached 90%, while 50% of the corn matured, down from last year’s 66%.

Corn harvested for grain was 11%, consistent with last year, while silage harvest was 73%, staying in line with past trends.

Fall tillage was 64% complete, surpassing last week and the five-year average. Grapes were 43% harvested, marking progress from last week.

The fourth cutting of alfalfa hay reached 78%, with other hay types completing their third and fourth cuttings at 95% and 57%, respectively.

Onions dry were nearly finished, with 93% harvested, and potatoes were 77% harvested, consistent with previous years.

Soybeans showed progress with 86% dropping leaves and 33% harvested. Sweet corn was almost entirely harvested at 92%, while snap beans reached 81%. Winter wheat planting and emergence were at 60% and 23%, respectively.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki