Cool temperatures and wet soils continued to limit spring fieldwork across much of the state, according to USDA, NASS, Minnesota Field Office. Statewide, on average, there were 1.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. As of May 4th, land preparation and plantings for corn and soybeans remained well behind the five-year average for that date.
The average temperature for the week was 43.1 degrees, 7.4 degrees below normal. Statewide topsoil moisture supplies as of Friday were rated 0 percent very short, 1 short, 67 adequate, and 32 surplus.
Field Crops Summary
As of Sunday, May 4, land prepared for corn planting was 17% complete compared to 69% last year and 78% for the five-year average. Land prepared for soybean planting was 4% complete compared to 22% last year and 28% average.
Spring wheat was 19% planted compared to 61% last year and 64% average. Oats were 28% planted compared to 65% last year and 75% average. Thirty-two percent of sugarbeets were planted compared to 66% last year and 75% average.
Pasture conditions were rated 36% fair, 37% good, and 4% excellent. Alfalfa conditions were rated 32% fair, 42% good, and 11% excellent.