By Blake Jackson
While Pennsylvania farmers faced a week with only 5.0 days suitable for fieldwork ending June 23rd, 2024, progress continues for many crops according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.
Soil moisture remains a concern, with topsoil showing 4% very short and 31% short of moisture. However, the majority (65%) is still considered adequate.
Subsoil moisture reflects a similar situation, with slightly less showing very short (2%) and short (27%) moisture levels, but the majority remains adequate (70%).
Barley development is nearing completion. Coloring of barley plants reached 87%, with maturity at 46% and harvesting for grain underway at 36%.
Corn is progressing well, with emergence reaching 94% and the average height reaching 29 inches, exceeding the five-year average. First cutting of alfalfa hay is nearly complete at 90%, with the second cutting at 22% progress. Hay production from other sources also shows good progress, with the first cutting at 80% complete.
Soybean planting reached 87%, with emergence at 70%. While emergence is slightly behind the historical average, it aligns with last year's numbers.
Winter wheat is in the early stages of maturity, with coloring at 51% and only 21% mature. These figures are behind both last year's numbers and the historical average.
Pennsylvania farmers are seeing progress in many crops despite limitations caused by recent weather conditions. Continued monitoring of weather and soil moisture will be crucial for optimal growing conditions in the coming weeks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Corn, Soybeans