By Andi Anderson
Pleasant temperatures and ample rainfall have provided a boost to Michigan’s crops, leading to positive progress in the fields. According to Marlo D. Johnson, Director of the USDA NASS Great Lakes Regional Office, there were 4.8 days suitable for fieldwork in Michigan during the week ending August 18, 2024.
These conditions have allowed for significant advancements in crop development and harvest activities across the state.
In the field crops sector, 55 percent of Michigan’s corn had reached or passed the dough stage. Although tar spot was detected in some fields, farmers are closely monitoring its severity before proceeding with treatment.
Despite these challenges, 71 percent of the corn crop is rated in good to excellent condition, marking an improvement from the previous week. Oat harvest is nearly complete, with 83 percent of the crop already harvested. However, white mold continues to pose a problem in dry edible beans and susceptible soybean varieties.
Looking ahead, the early campaign for sugarbeet harvest is expected to begin soon, with higher-than-average yields anticipated. Meanwhile, Michigan’s table potato harvest is underway, alongside an increase in chip potato harvest activities.
In the southern regions of the state, hay producers have started the fourth cutting of alfalfa. Other activities in the field last week included scouting for pests, planting cover crops after wheat, baling wheat straw, hauling hay, chopping alfalfa for silage, alfalfa seeding, and tending to livestock.
The fruit sector is also benefiting from continued cool evening temperatures, which have supported apple development. Harvest of early apple varieties is ongoing, and growers are preparing to begin harvesting more widely planted varieties soon. Notably, many apple varieties are maturing one to two weeks earlier than usual.
In the vegetable sector, weather conditions have generally been favorable as the season progresses. Pumpkins are growing well, and sweet corn producers are reporting strong yields.
The potato harvest is underway in southern Michigan, where growers are also keeping a watchful eye on late blight. A variety of vegetables are hitting the market, including broccoli, eggplants, peppers, and tomatoes.
However, cucurbit downy mildew has been detected on cucumbers in 17 counties across the state and has also been observed in onions. Additionally, disease pressure is being noted in carrot and cabbage fields, prompting producers to remain vigilant against further outbreaks.
Overall, Michigan's crops are thriving under favorable weather conditions, setting the stage for a productive harvest season despite some challenges from pests and diseases.
Photo Credit: istock-ds70
Categories: Michigan, Harvesting