This Week’s Weather & Pests
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection
Brisk, showery weather prevailed across the state during the final week of April. After last week’s warm spell, temperatures on April 25 declined abruptly and chilly conditions persisted throughout the week. Highs ranged from the lower 40s to upper 50s, about 5-10 degrees below normal for this time of year. Lows were in the upper 20s to lower 40s. Seasonal showers provided timely precipitation for corn planting and maintained mostly adequate soil moisture levels, but fieldwork stalled as the cold snap and periods of light rain slowed planting progress made last week. Corn planting was 10% complete by April 24, three days ahead of last year, and four days ahead of the five-year average. Despite the unfavorable weather, Wisconsin growers are optimistic about prospects for the 2016 growing season after a mild winter and an unusually warm March. Significant planting of corn, oats and potatoes is expected once spring temperatures moderate next week. To view the full issue, please follow the link below: