By Andi Anderson
The past week in Michigan, characterized by mostly dry weather, proved beneficial for agricultural operations, allowing farmers to advance significantly in their seasonal activities.
According to Marlo D. Johnson, Director of the USDA NASS Great Lakes Regional Office, the state experienced 5.5 days suitable for fieldwork up to June 16, 2024.
Field crop progress saw the wrapping up of corn, soybean, and oat planting, with dry edible beans reaching 75% planted.
The winter wheat is reported to be 80% in good to excellent condition, and hay harvests are yielding better results than the previous year.
However, strong winds during the week limited herbicide applications on sugarbeets, although the potato crop remains in good condition overall.
In the fruit sector, apple orchards across the state observed the June drop, with some showing signs of frost damage.
Despite this, fruit growth is rapid, particularly in the West Central region where Zestar apples are reaching up to 44 mm in size.
Other varieties like Honeycrisp and Gala are also developing well. Tart cherries and peaches are growing rapidly, with some peach fruitlets already 35 mm. Blueberry bushes in the Southwest are beginning to show the first hints of ripening, though some concerns about foliage growth have been noted.
The vegetable segment also reported positive growth, aided by average temperatures and varying rainfall. Tomatoes and peppers are being trellised, and asparagus harvesting is concluding with the application of herbicides and fungicides.
Brassicas like cabbage and broccoli are being transplanted, and direct-seeded greens such as kale and mustard are beginning to be harvested. In the Southwest, cucumbers and zucchini are nearing harvest, while peas continue to be picked in the Southwest and Eastern regions.
Michigan's agricultural scene remains vibrant and diverse, with each sector adapting to the week's conditions to maximize growth and productivity. As the season progresses, the state's farmers continue to demonstrate resilience and efficiency in managing their crops.
Photo Credit: minnesota-corn-growers-association
Categories: Michigan, Crops