Constant rain during the week ending May 31 hampered farmers trying to finish planting crops in Tennessee, according to NASS’ weekly report. Corn, which was 97 percent planted the week before last, added only 1 percent more. Soybeans and cotton crops also saw little progress in planting because of the rain, which limited farmers to only 2.3 days of suitable fieldwork.

However, wheat and corn remain in fair to good condition. Topsoil moisture was 1 percent very short, 10 percent short and 50 percent adequate, with 39 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were 7 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 24 percent surplus, according to the report.

Rain allowed weeds to flourish because farmers couldn’t get into the fields to treat them, and hay harvesting was hit hard, especially in Middle and West Tennessee. Since January, rain has averaged 25 inches, with some places receiving as much as 30. East Tennessee has fared better, with an average of 15 inches.

"Another week of rain!" lamented exclaimed Weakley County extension agent Jeff Lannom. "Planters have not moved for the second week in a row. A small amount of sidedressing of corn occurred this week, with some being applied by airplane. A minimal amount of post-emerge herbicides were applied this week, as well."

Even with its drawbacks, the rain was good for farmers in some areas. "Frequent showers throughout the week brought fieldwork to a halt. The much needed moisture dramatically improved crop conditions all across the county," reported extension agent Calvin C. Bryant III of Lawrence County.

"Not much happening on the agricultural front. Rain has kept producers out of the field. Corn, cotton and soybeans are in good condition. A few acres of cotton are being replanted due to rains. Some issues with corn in a few areas having discoloration on lower leaves, which may be environmental. Beef cattle and pastures are in excellent condition," J.C. Dupree, Lauderdale County agent, said.

"The corn crop is off to a great start," reported Haywood County agent Walter Battle. "In regard to cotton, several producers are facing a dilemma where late cotton planting dates must be utilized because cotton ground that has already been treated with the herbicide fluometuron is only approved for use on cotton, preventing producers from switching to soybeans. There has been little hay harvesting, as forage producers have received tremendous rains."