The southern part of Middle Tennessee saw the dry conditions it has experienced lately persist and cause stress on row crops and pastures during the week ending Aug. 17. Meanwhile, the majority of the Volunteer State had cool temperatures and rain, with those cooler temps in the evening hours slowing progress of the cotton crop, reported NASS.

"Dry weather and low humidity helped forage producers cut, cure and bale hay this week. Some herbicide applications were made to late-planted double crop soybeans. Producers with irrigation equipment are watering corn and soybeans on a regular basis. A good, general rain would be a tremendous help for all crops," Jeff Lannom, Weakley County extension agent, said.

The weather apparently didn’t hamper bugs or humans. NASS stated insect activity increased slightly during the week, although the amount was light compared with historic levels. Also, farmers had 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork, including hay producers who were busy during the week with their second cutting of hay.

Extension agent Jeff Via said cool temps and lots of rain have helped crops in his area. "The farmers in Fayette County had a great week spraying pests. Other activities included harvesting hay. Crops look great! Cool weather moved into the area this week."

Despite variations in rain amounts and temps, the majority of Tennessee crops continue to be in good condition, according to NASS. Producers are making final sprays as crops reach growth stages in which additional inputs may not be feasible. Late soybeans responded greatly to last week’s rains, while the cotton crop basically sits still due to low nighttime temperatures.

Pastures are producing high quality forages and producers are very happy with hay yields," Walter Battle of Haywood County said.

The majority of the state’s moisture levels continue to be adequate. Topsoil moisture levels were rated 7 percent very short, 27 percent short, 60 percent adequate and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were rated 8 percent very short, 26 percent short, 63 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus.