By Andi Anderson
Dry weather early in the week allowed Michigan farmers to resume fieldwork, according to Marlo D. Johnson, Director of USDA NASS Great Lakes Regional Office. There were 3.0 days suitable for fieldwork in Michigan for the week ending April 21, 2024. Oats planting progressed on track with historical averages, and temperatures in the Thumb region favored sugarbeet planting.
Potato planting is well underway in the southern Lower Peninsula, with about half of the crop already planted in the Southwest. Many farmers are prepared to begin full-scale planting once fields dry out and temperatures stay consistently warm. Other activities included manure hauling, herbicide and fertilizer applications, and tilling.
In the fruit sector, growers continued planting trees, pruning, and applying cover sprays. Warm, sunny days have accelerated crop development and increased pollinator activity, with commercial honeybee and bumblebee hives arriving soon. However, farmers remain cautious of potential frost and rain, which could heighten disease risks.
Key Highlights:
- Field Crops: Oats planting on schedule, sugarbeet and potato planting progressing.
- Fruit Crops: Tree planting, pruning, and cover spraying ongoing, with warm days boosting pollinator activity.
- Weather Summary: Average temperatures across regions ranged from 41°F to 56°F, with varied precipitation levels.
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Photo Credit: gettyimages-tlillico
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Weather