Field Crops
The majority of the state continued to experience rain showers accompanied by colder temperatures, according to Marlo D. Johnson, Director of the Great Lakes Regional Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service. There were only 1.6 days suitable for fieldwork in Michigan during the week ending October 31, 2021.
Corn harvest remained on pace although widespread rain did slow progress. Reported grain moisture was 20 percent, down 1 percentage point from the previous week. Soybean harvest continued behind the five-year average as progress was slowed for the third consecutive week. Reported soybean moisture was 17 percent, up 1 percentage point from the previous week. Continued precipitation remained a concern in corn and soybeans across the State. More harvest progress was accomplished in the northern counties over the last week when compared to the south where rain was more prevalent.
Sugarbeet harvest was also slowed due to the unfavorable weather; progress continued on pace with the five-year average despite muddy field conditions. Winter wheat planting made progress between rain showers. Pastures began to show a decline in condition as colder temperatures hindered growth. Fourth cuttings of hay continued in some areas but overall very little progress was made. Other activities included fall tillage, hauling manure, scouting crops, and catching up on paperwork.
Corn
Harvested for grain: 53%
74% G/E
Soybeans
Harvested: 55%
64% G/E
Wheat
Planted: 77%
Emerged: 66%
Dry Beans
Harvested: 99%
Sugarbeets
Harvested: 59%
82% G/E
Range and pasture
46% G/E
Fruit
Apple harvest was nearly complete. Growers harvested the latest ripening varieties and worked on final fall orchard activities. This will be the final fruit report for the season.
