By Blake Jackson
According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, as of October 20, 2024, Pennsylvania experienced 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork during the past week.
The report indicates varying levels of topsoil and subsoil moisture, with 4% of topsoil categorized as very short, 20% short, and 76% adequate.
Subsoil moisture reflects a similar trend, with 5% very short, 22% short, and 73% adequate, while no areas reported surplus moisture.
In terms of crop progress, apple harvests have advanced significantly, with 90% harvested this week compared to 80% last week and 94% last year.
For barley, 55% has been planted, up from 30% the previous week, but still below the 70% five-year average. Emergence rates for barley stand at 20%.
Corn is progressing as well, with 78% now mature and 41% harvested for grain, a notable increase from 20% last week. Corn for silage is nearly complete at 89%.
Meanwhile, fall tillage is 50% complete, and the fourth cutting of alfalfa hay is at 90%. In soybean crops, 90% are dropping leaves, and 32% have been harvested. Finally, winter wheat planting is at 50%, with 19% emerged.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Fruits and Vegetables