By Bev Berens Michigan Correspondent Heat returned to Michigan and parts of the Lower Peninsula experienced their first 90-degree days in almost two years last weekend. Heat coupled with little significant rainfall gave producers in southern counties continued opportunity to dry out saturated soils; however, crops in central and northern parts of the state are in need of rain and some crops are stressed. Parts of southeastern Michigan received up to an inch of rain early last week. Temperatures were hot and dry with no significant rainfall, and another week of similar weather is expected. Growing degree-day base 42, 45 and 50 inched up by 29 GDD, 26 and 21, respectively. In general, the state is a week behind in heat accumulation but is about 1 inch ahead in rainfall accumulation. For the week ending July 26, corn is about 63 percent in silk, about 5 percent behind 2014. Soybeans in bloom for the same week are at 76 percent, which is 5 percent ahead of last year’s average for the same time. Wheat harvest is nearly halfway completed. Initial yield reports are strong, but moisture has been high, resulting in vomitoxin issues for some producers. |
