Submitted
Seeding operations are mostly complete across the province, but there are a few fields still being seeded for green feed and silage. All six crop districts in the province are reporting that 99 per cent of the crop is in the ground. Compared to 92 per cent last week and the five-year average (2014-18) of 93 per cent for this time of year. Ninety-nine per cent of spring wheat, durum, canola, and canary seed are seeded, while 98 per cent of oats, barley, and flax are planted.
Little rainfall was reported this past week throughout the province, with amounts ranging from 0 to 18 mm in the Rocanville area. Significant rain is needed soon across the province to help with crop growth and emergence as well as with the establishment and growth of hay land and pastures.
Topsoil moisture conditions continue to deteriorate across the province due to strong winds and lack of moisture. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 22 per cent adequate, 47 per cent short and 31 per cent very short. Topsoil moisture on hay land and pasture is rated as 18 per cent adequate, 42 per cent short, and 40 per cent very short.
Hay and pasture growth has been slow due to little rainfall. The majority of crop conditions range from poor to good across the province. Crop growth is delayed in much of the province due to the lack of moisture.
The majority of crop damage this past week was due to strong winds, insects such as flea beetles and cutworms, and the lack of moisture.
Farmers are busy making in-crop pesticide applications to control weeds and insects.
