Storms and heavy rainfall brought unwanted excess moisture to many areas of the State, but dry conditions in some areas persisted, according to the USDA, NASS, Great Lakes Region. Precipitation in Kokomo has been six inches more than normal since April 1, but almost four inches short in Greensburg, only 85 miles away. Much of the state experienced above average rainfall along with strong winds and hail which left fields ponded and halted fieldwork. However, the Southern portions of the State were highlighted as abnormally dry on the June 9 drought monitor. Days suitable for fieldwork was 3.2, down from last week. By region, the North had 2.0 days available for fieldwork, 3.1 days in Central, and 5.6 days in the South.
Regionally, winter wheat mature was 1% in the North, 15% in Central and 47% in the South. By region winter wheat harvested was 1% in the North, 4% in Central, and 4% in the South. Soybeans planted was 93% complete in the North, 94% in Central and 94% in the South. Soybeans were 84% emerged in the North, 82% in Central and 84% in the South.
Some winter wheat fields that saw heavy rains and wind flattened out due to the excess water in the fields. Some corn and soybean fields have yellowed and show signs of over saturation, leading to some concerns about the root conditions once the soils dry out. Farmers were unable to get into the fields to replant the drowned crops, and spent much of their time digging drain trenches. While pastures and hay fields remain lush and are growing well, many growers have been unable to cut and bale their fields. In the South, livestock farmers are concerned about the dry pastures and hot weather on the animals. Watermelon plants have been set, and pumpkin farmers prepare for planting.
Most of the wheat crop has headed and 23% is rated as mature with 3% having been harvested.Indiana corn condition was rated as 73% good to excellent with 26% rated as fair to poor and 1% rated very poor. Indiana soybean conditions were rated as 71% good to excellent and 29% rated fair to poor and 1% rated poor.