By Andi Anderson
Michigan’s crops benefitted from a mostly dry week with cooler-than-normal temperatures, aiding harvest efforts, particularly for oats and hay.
According to Marlo D. Johnson, Director of the USDA NASS Great Lakes Regional Office, there were 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 25, 2024.
Corn conditions were rated at 70 percent good to excellent, showing a slight decline from the previous week. However, soybean conditions improved slightly, with 62 percent rated as good to excellent. Both soybeans and dry beans have begun to drop their leaves, signaling the approach of harvest.
Dry bean producers are anticipating the start of harvest soon. Additionally, the sugarbeet condition saw an improvement, with 79 percent rated as good to excellent, and the early campaign harvest is expected to commence shortly.
Potato harvest continued successfully under the favorable weather conditions, and the dry weather also supported hay harvests, with some southern Michigan producers beginning their fourth cutting.
In the fruit sector, Michigan's apple crop is expected to be up to two weeks early this year due to warmer temperatures experienced earlier in the season. While crop loads are generally good, some growers reported a reduced crop due to poor pollination during bloom.
Early Gala apple strains have already been harvested in the South, with other main varieties like MacIntosh and Honeycrisp expected to begin harvest soon. However, hot weather at the end of the week and predicted for the coming week may delay the harvest. Growers are considering applying ‘stop drop’ materials to manage harvest timing and enhance fruit color.
Peach harvest is nearing completion, with good demand and quality reported, while blueberry harvest is almost finished, with only a few late-season varieties left.
Vegetable producers across the state are actively engaged in late-season harvests. Brassicas like broccoli and kale, along with salad greens, continue to reach the market, while additional leafy greens are being planted for autumn harvest.
Cabbage producers are dealing with significant white mold issues, and weather conditions have favored the development of purple spot in asparagus. Pumpkin growth is ongoing, with producers managing powdery mildew, and heavy cucumber and moderate zucchini supplies are reaching the market as growers manage downy mildew.
Onion harvest is also underway. In sweet corn, corn leaf aphids have been reported in the East Central region, while corn earworm activity has increased in the western part of the state.
Overall, Michigan’s crop conditions and harvest progress remain strong, with growers continuing to manage challenges and prepare for the remainder of the season.
Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko
Categories: Michigan, Harvesting