Volume 53 Number 4 May 09 2008This Week's Weather & Pests Daytime temperatures were more seasonable in the past week, but intermittent rains prevented farmers from making any measurable progress toward planting corn and soybeans. Much of Wisconsin farmlands still remain under water and soil conditions generally are unfavorable for field operations. Several days of warm, dry weather and light winds are urgently needed for fields to dry completely. Alfalfa and winter wheat appear to be developing well despite recent weather, while other crops are progressing very slowly. The growing season is now 5-16 days behind last year and corn yield responses may begin to decrease if planting is delayed past May 10. The degree day total was 188 (base 50°F) at Madison on May 8, which compares to 283 last year. |
