Michigan crops flourish in heat

By Andi Anderson

Last week, Michigan experienced much warmer than normal weather with above-average precipitation in the southern Lower Peninsula, according to Marlo D. Johnson, Director of USDA NASS, Great Lakes Regional Office. There were 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 4, 2024.

Field crop growers were vigilant as corn tar spot appeared in the Southwest at low levels. Farmers monitored their fields to decide on fungicide applications. Soybeans were progressing well, with 89 percent blooming and 52 percent setting pods, ahead of last year but consistent with the five-year average.

Half of the oat crop had already been harvested, and the winter wheat harvest was nearly complete. Dry edible bean growers continued treating for white mold. Michigan’s potato crop was in good condition, with the chip potato harvest beginning and table potatoes to be harvested in about 10 days.

Sugarbeets were rated 79 percent in good to excellent condition. Although the second and third cuttings of hay progressed, humid conditions in the southern part of the state caused some delays.

Other field activities included scouting, planting cover crops after wheat, baling wheat straw, hauling manure, chopping alfalfa for silage, and tending to livestock.

In the fruit sector, farmers in the Northwest hoped for rain to alleviate dry soils, while those in the West Central and South managed hot conditions with prevalent precipitation. Warm, moist conditions were conducive to fungal diseases.

The apple harvest continued for early varieties, and the peach and blueberry harvests were ongoing.

Vegetable crops were also being harvested, with producers managing new pests and diseases. Harvested vegetables included eggplants, peppers, tomatoes, and okra. Some producers in the West Central region prepared for an early harvest of yellow onions. Broccoli, cabbage, and kale continued to hit the market, with additional plantings still going in.

Producers took action against downy mildew as the harvest picked up for pickles, zucchini, and cucumbers. Potato growers remained vigilant against late blight, and newly arrived corn leaf aphids colonized plantings of sweet corn.

Overall, Michigan farmers are navigating the warm weather and timely rains to maintain crop health and productivity. Despite some challenges with pests and diseases, the state’s agricultural sector is progressing well, ensuring a steady supply of various crops.

Photo Credit: istock-pixeldigits