Growing conditions for Saskatchewan crops continue to vary, with some fields progressing nicely while others are stressed by dryness, says the latest provincial crop report on Thursday.
As can be seen on the map below, April 1 – July 7 rainfall has been especially scarce in large areas of the northwest and southwest, along with pockets in the central and the northeastern parts of the province.
The Hanley area received the most rainfall in the province this past week at 44 mm, followed by the Serath area at 33 mm. The Lampman and Semans areas were close behind with 32 mm and 28 mm, respectively. Other areas received much needed rainfall, “but producers are hoping for more in the coming weeks,” the report said.
Provincial cropland topsoil moisture was rated 55% adequate, 33% short, and 12% very short as of Monday, declining from 2% surplus, 66% adequate, 23% short, and 9% very short the previous week.
“Producers throughout the province are hoping for timely rainfall to accommodate the high crop water usage requirements during this time.”
Crop staging varies throughout the province and within regions as a result of irregular rainfall, the report said. Many fields are at relatively uniform stages, but producers are noting that some fields have inconsistent staging due to dry conditions early in the growing season, which is making spray timing challenging, it added.
Like the previous week, dry conditions and hot temperatures caused the most widespread crop damage, but damage is considered minor in many cases. Wind also continues to cause minor damage to crops, while a few areas received hail that caused minor damage. Minor insect and wildlife damage is being reported in various crop types, with gophers, grasshoppers, and cabbage seed pod weevils causing the most damage.
The full report can be seen here:
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/agriculture-natural-resources-and-industry/agribusiness-farmers-and-ranchers/market-and-trade-statistics/crops-statistics/crop-report
