By Blake Jackson
Missouri experienced favorable conditions for fieldwork last week, with farmers logging an average of 6.6 days of work. However, temperatures were 3.2 degrees below normal at 72.9 degrees, and precipitation was significantly below average at just 0.05 inches.
Despite the dry weather, soil moisture levels remain relatively adequate, with 67% of topsoil and 80% of subsoil rated in this category. However, shortages are emerging in some areas, with 28% of topsoil and 18% of subsoil classified as short.
Corn development is well ahead of schedule. Eighty-six percent of the crop has reached the dough stage, surpassing the five-year average by 13 percentage points. Similarly, 44% of the corn is dented, far exceeding the average of 19%.
Soybean progress is also strong, with 84% of plants blooming and 64% setting pods. Cotton is developing rapidly, with 98% of plants squaring and 66% setting bolls. Rice heading is at 81%, ahead of the five-year average of 64%.
While crop conditions are generally good, there are areas of concern. Corn condition is rated 62% good to excellent, but there are also percentages in the very poor, poor, and fair categories.
Soybean and cotton conditions show similar trends. Rice, on the other hand, is in relatively better shape, with 69% rated good to excellent.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kotenko-a
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Weather