By Andi Anderson
Last week, Michigan's agricultural landscape faced diverse weather conditions underlined by Marlo D. Johnson, Director at USDA NASS, Great Lakes Regional Office.
The state witnessed 4.9 days suitable for fieldwork by June 23, 2024. Winter wheat faced lodging due to high winds and excess rain in isolated areas, affecting its maturity, while corn and soybeans benefited from the rainfall.
Oats showed significant progress with heading nearly doubling to 43 percent, up from 23 percent the previous week.
Dry edible beans emerged well ahead of schedule compared to last year and the five-year average. Producers began monitoring leaf spots in sugarbeet fields, while potato flowering approached completion.
In the fruit sector, Michigan's hot summer start prompted growers to protect ripening fruit from insects and fungal diseases.
Apple fruit thinning continued, with harvest dates in the Southwest predicted to be ahead of normal by a week or two. Apple sizes varied across regions, with cherries beginning local sales in the Southwest and tart cherry brix levels showing promising sweetness.
Vegetable production accelerated under abnormally high temperatures, fostering rapid crop growth and increased insect activity. Asparagus faced purple spot challenges, prompting fungicide applications.
Cabbage harvest commenced in the Southeast amidst pest management efforts, while early-planted tomatoes faced concerns over potential blossom drop due to heat.
Cucumbers and zucchinis reached markets in the Southwest, with preventive measures against cucurbit downy mildew underway.
Onion fields saw herbicide applications, and garlic scapes and bulbs began harvest earlier than usual. Turnips and radishes were also being harvested, alongside ongoing activities like sweet corn planting, pea harvest, and bean flowering.
Michigan's agricultural community continues to adapt to fluctuating weather conditions, with farmers leveraging timely interventions to safeguard crop health and productivity amidst the challenges posed by heat waves and heavy rain.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Michigan, Weather