The latest USDA report for the week ending July 16, 2023, reveals varied field conditions and progress for summer crops. With 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork, the report provides insights into moisture supplies and the development of key crops.
Moisture Supplies:
Topsoil moisture supplies were categorized as follows: 10% very short, 24% short, 58% adequate, and 8% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were rated as 14% very short, 32% short, 52% adequate, and 2% surplus. These ratings indicate the overall moisture levels in the soil, which play a crucial role in crop growth and health.
Field Crop Report:
Winter wheat, nearing maturity at 97%, closely aligns with the 100% achieved last year and the five-year average. However, the progress of harvest, currently at 71%, falls behind both last year's 98% and the 94% average.
Corn condition is rated as 5% very poor, 9% poor, 32% fair, 44% good, and 10% excellent. Corn silking has progressed to 55%, surpassing the 45% observed last year and approaching the 52% average. Dough development stands at 13%, ahead of both last year's 8% and the average.
Soybean condition is rated as 3% very poor, 8% poor, 31% fair, 49% good, and 9% excellent. Blooming is currently at 46%, ahead of last year's 34% and close to the 42% average. Setting pods is at 16%, showing advancement compared to 3% last year and the 9% average.
Sorghum condition is reported as 3% very poor, 7% poor, 40% fair, 43% good, and 7% excellent. Planting progress is at 96%, near the levels seen last year and the average. Headed development is at 12%, slightly ahead of last year's 8% and the 10% average. Coloring has just begun, registering at 4%.
Cotton condition is rated as 5% very poor, 9% poor, 33% fair, 45% good, and 8% excellent. Cotton squaring stands at 72%, trailing last year's 81% but aligning with the 68% average. Setting bolls is currently at 12%, lagging behind last year's 20% but close to the 10% average.
Sunflowers planting progress is at 93%, similar to both last year and the average.
Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions are classified as 10% very poor, 18% poor, 38% fair, 31% good, and 3% excellent. These conditions reflect the state of grazing areas, which are vital for livestock and forage production.
The USDA report examines moisture supplies and summer crop development, aiding farmers, researchers, and policymakers in understanding conditions and making informed decisions on agricultural practices and resource allocation.
Photo Credit: istock-martijnvandernat
Categories: Kansas, Crops