Indiana

Although recent rainstorms have slowed the pace, Hoosier growers are still planting at a record rate this spring.

According to Indiana’s NASS office, Indiana corn growers have 71 percent of the state’s estimated corn acres planted. This was accomplished with only 2.9 days suitable for field work last week. The previous record was 70 percent planted during the spring of 2004.

The NASS office reported that some areas of southern Indiana took on more than four inches of rain. Strong winds also made it difficult for growers to spray herbicides. With early-morning temperatures in the low 30s in some areas of the state, coupled with clear overnight conditions, there is a possibility of frost damage on emerged corn plants.

“The effect of frost on young corn when it is accompanied by temperatures no lower than about 30 (degrees) F. is primarily damage and death of the exposed above ground leaf tissue,” said Purdue University corn expert Bob Nielsen. “As long as the growing point of the young plant is still protected below the soil surface, the injured plant usually recovers from the effects of the superficial leaf damage.”

For winter wheat, 69 percent of the acreage is jointed compared with 60 percent last year and 71 percent for the five-year average. The winter wheat condition is rated 72 percent good-to-excellent compared with 79 percent last year at this time.

Pasture condition is rated 78 percent good-to-excellent compared with 69 percent last year. Livestock are reported to be in mostly good condition. Feedlots and pastures are becoming muddy with the recent rainfall.
By Dave Blower Jr.
Farm World Editor