By Blake Jackson
Missouri farmers enjoyed a productive week ending June 30th, 2024, with above-average temperatures and precipitation. While fieldwork was slightly limited (4.3 suitable days), significant progress was made across major crops.
Warm weather accelerated corn development. Corn silking reached 35%, well ahead of the usual 10% for this time of year. Corn dough formation also began, with 1% reported. Overall, corn health remained positive with 78% rated good to excellent, despite a slight increase in stressed categories (very poor, poor, and fair).
Soybean planting nearly reached completion at 98%, exceeding the historical average. Emergence also progressed quickly, with 91% of soybeans out of the ground. Soybean blooming advanced to 14%, surpassing the typical 8% for late June. Similar to corn, soybean health showed a minor decline, but 76% remained in good or excellent condition.
Cotton planting and squaring are on track, with 42% of bolls forming compared to the 5-year average of 44%. Rice planting is also nearing completion, with heading just beginning at 1%.
The good news continues for wheat producers, with harvesting nearly complete at 92%, significantly ahead of the usual 68% for this stage. Hay producers also benefited from the favorable conditions, with the first cutting of alfalfa hay nearly finished (96%) and the second cutting underway (31%).
While the hot weather may have caused some stress, Missouri's farmers capitalized on the rain and suitable fieldwork days to make substantial progress across their crops.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-songdech17
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Wheat