Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection
Drier weather with milder temperatures returned to Wisconsin, allowing spring fieldwork to proceed. Afternoon highs ranged from the 50s to 70s and were near or slightly above seasonal averages, while nighttime temperatures fell below freezing in some locations. Planting of corn, oats, potatoes and early soybeans advanced in the southern and western areas, though light to moderate rainfall and low soil temperatures continued to hamper full-scale fieldwork in eastern and northern Wisconsin. The latest USDA NASS Wisconsin Crop Progress report shows pronounced disparity in planting progress between the state’s crop districts at the start of May. Corn producers in southwestern Wisconsin have planted more than 50% of this year’s acreage, while only 2-10% of the corn crop has been planted in the east-central and northern areas. Planting conditions should improve statewide with the warming trend beginning May 6. To view the full issue, please follow the link below: