There were 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending May 25, 2014, according to the USDA, NASS, Great Lakes Region. Temperatures for Indiana ranged from a low of 35º to a high of 88º for the week, with daily averages ranging between 60º and 71º. Many counties in northern districts received no precipitation for the week, while more southern areas received as much as 1.87 inches with scattered hail reported.
Indiana corn planted has now reached a total of 87 percent, up 15 percent from a week ago and 10 percent better than the 5 year average. Planting by region is at: North 91%, Central 88%, South 78%. Corn emergence jumped 26 points to 68 percent, 12 points better than the 5 year average. National corn progress is at 88 percent planted and 60 percent emerged. USDA expects to release this year’s first report on the condition of the corn crop next week.
Soybean acreage planted in the state is at 58 percent, a one week jump of 25 percent and 8 percent ahead of the 5 year average. By area: North 68%, Central 59%, South 42%. Soybean emergence is at 30 percent, right on the 5 year average. The national numbers are 59 percent planted and 25 percent emerged.
Winter wheat jointed in Indiana is at 92 percent and by area: North 88%, Central 92%, South 96%.
Heavy rains two weeks ago and cool temperatures at the beginning of last week contributed to localized flooding of fields across the state and crusting of newly planted plots. Warm temperatures and dry conditions in the latter half of the week encouraged vigorous planting in most areas, including replanting of any fields damaged by hail or flood. Newly emerged corn started out yellow this week, but has improved as conditions warmed. Farmers finished with planting were side-dressing their corn and soy fields, and wheat fields were being sprayed for weeds and disease. Many hay farmers began their first cutting of alfalfa this week. Other activities included manure hauling and mowing roadsides.
Source: USDA NASS