Missouri's recent dry spell had left its mark, particularly evident in the bleak crop progress and conditions report of the past month.
The state recently celebrated a silver lining. Over the past week, rainfall showered the region, bringing renewed hope to the agricultural community.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistic Service (NASS) highlighted that Missouri farmers had 3.7 productive days in the field for the week ending August 6, 2023.
With an average temperature of 78 degrees and precipitation levels nearly 2 inches above the norm, it's clear the weather was on their side.
Significant changes were noted in the state's soil moisture content. Previously, topsoil moisture was majorly in the deficient category, but the recent showers bumped up the numbers with 43% now rated as adequate and even an 8% surplus.
This improvement mirrored in subsoil moisture levels too. What's more, it's been a significant duration since the state last saw a surplus in this category.
On the crop front, Missouri corn's progress is notable. With 70% reaching the dough stage, it’s a 14% spike from the previous week and comfortably surpasses the 5-year average.
Soybeans blooming reached 86%, outpacing the 5-year average by 12%, and a remarkable 16% more soybeans are now setting pods compared to last week.
The showers couldn't have come at a better time, proving to be a lifeline for Missouri's agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans, Weather