By Scout Nelson
The U.S. sorghum harvest of 2023 is unfolding with diverse results across key states, as reported by the USDA Crop Progress update for the week ending October 15. While Texas nears completion with 92% of its harvest done, other states like South Dakota and Colorado are lagging in comparison.
Brent Bean, an authority from the National Sorghum Producers, describes this season’s yields as a "mixed bag." Despite favorable weather aiding the harvest, inconsistent climatic shifts have caused disparities in crop outcomes. The secret to high yields this season appears to hinge on optimal planting dates aligning with crucial rainfall periods.
Texas leads the charge, slightly ahead of its five-year average but behind last year’s progress. The state’s crop quality remains stable, with almost half classified as good or excellent. Conversely, South Dakota's harvest has seen a notable leap, yet it trails last year's pace. The condition of its sorghum, however, has experienced a slight uptick.
Oklahoma and Kansas are progressing steadily, with harvests slightly outpacing their five-year averages. Nonetheless, the crop conditions in these states present a varied picture, emphasizing the uneven nature of this year's sorghum season. Nebraska witnessed the most significant weekly progress, although its overall harvest is slightly behind the average pace. The state saw a minor dip in crop conditions compared to the previous week.
Colorado, while slowest in harvest progression, boasts the healthiest crops, setting a high standard nationally.
Overall, the national harvest is slightly lagging behind last year but manages to stay ahead of the five-year trend. With 42% of crops in good/excellent health, the scenario is an improvement over the previous year, indicating a resilient agricultural sector amidst challenges.
Photo Credit: istock-mailson-pignata
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Sorghum