A midweek break from the rain allowed for significant planting progress last week, according to Nathanial Warenski, state statistician, USDA NASS, Indiana Field Office. Soil moisture levels increased slightly from the previous week, with 97 percent of topsoil moisture reported as adequate or surplus.
The average temperature for the week was 66.7 degrees Fahrenheit, 2.6 degrees above normal for the State. The amount of rainfall varied from 0.19 inches to 3.20 inches over the week. The statewide average precipitation was 1.68 inches, 0.77 inches above normal. There were 4.2 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday.
Corn and soybean plantings progressed rapidly last week, with both almost catching up to their respective five-year averages.
The warmer temperatures and abundant moisture supported winter wheat growth, and winter wheat crop conditions remained unchanged from the previous week.
Hay harvest started in some areas last week, and pasture conditions improved slightly.
Livestock were reported to be in good condition. Heavy rains, winds, and hail storms in the latter half of the week caused concerns of possible crop damage, particularly in the southern part of the State.
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Harvesting, Livestock, Weather