As the spring wheat and durum crops progress in development, producers are busy monitoring fields for disease and pest issues. Some producers are reporting higher than normal levels of grasshopper infestations. Producers are carefully monitoring disease pressure, especially risk for Fusarium Headblight (scab) and applying fungicide as needed. So far, no major, widespread issues are reported. Crop development stages vary widely across the state. Moisture levels remain mostly adequate to surplus, but with warmer temperatures in the forecast, producers report needed consistent moisture throughout the rest of the growing season.
The most recent USDA Crop Progress report shows that almost 40% of the spring wheat has headed out in North Dakota, well behind the average of almost 80%. Percent of the crop headed in Minnesota and Montana ranges from 34-40%, while South Dakota's crop is more advanced at 81% headed. Crop condition ratings continue to increase week by week with 70% of the U.S. crop in good to excellent condition. Crop conditions are highest in North Dakota where 81% is rated in good to excellent condition.
The durum crop in North Dakota also continues to develop slower than normal. Only about 30% has headed out compared to 65-66% for both last year and the five-year average. With the adequate moisture and decent growing conditions so far, crop condition ratings are quite high with 89% of the state's crop in good to excellent condition. In Montana, 40% of the durum has headed out, slightly behind average and 56% is rated in good condition.
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Wheat, North Dakota, Crops, Wheat, Weather, South Dakota, Crops, Wheat