Cold, wet weather slows field work; more moisture needed

ST. PAUL (AP) -- Field work slowed last week while the ground soaked up much-needed rain and snow, but the moisture still wasn't enough, the Minnesota Agricultural Statistics Service said Monday in its weekly crop report.

Topsoil moisture statewide as of Friday was rated 17 percent very short, 43 percent short, 34 percent adequate and 6 percent surplus.

The low soil temperatures and dry conditions prompted a large number of producers to wait until the crop insurance coverage dates before planting, the ag service said.

Corn ground preparation is 26 percent complete as of Sunday, compared with the five-year average of 2 percent. Soybean land preparation is 8 percent completed, ahead of the five-year average of 1 percent.

Green peas are 18 percent planted versus 5 percent last year and 2 percent for the five-year average. An estimated 36 percent of the oats acreage has been planted, compared with 12 percent a year ago and 5 percent for the five-year average. Spring wheat is 12 percent planted, versus 1 percent for the five-year average. Barley is 13 percent planted, compared with the five-year average of zero.

Alfalfa and winter wheat are starting to break out of dormancy in all but northern portions of the state. Alfalfa was reported to be 91 percent fair to excellent condition, and winter wheat was 87 percent fair to excellent condition.