Corn producers seek dry ground in southern Minnesota

Corn producers in southern Minnesota have been busy planting where dry fields can be found after a second weekend of heavy snowfall pushed precipitation to near normal levels, according to the Minnesota Agricultural Statistics Service.

Seedbed conditions were reported to be very good, and a quick return to seasonal normal temperatures was anticipated, according to the latest crop report released Monday.

Strong winds have helped dry fields in southern counties. But wind erosion has been a problem in parts of the Red River Valley where precipitation has been scarce.

Statewide topsoil moisture conditions as of Friday were rated 5 percent short, 79 percent adequate and 16 percent surplus.

Alfalfa hay stands have generally over-wintered well in southern areas. In the northern part of the state, pastures and forage fields are still mostly dormant.

An estimated 34 percent of oat acreage has been planted, compared with 3 percent a year ago and 40 percent for the five-year average. Spring wheat is 9 percent planted compared with the five-year average of 29 percent. An estimated 12 percent of barley is planted versus 21 percent for the five-year average.

Corn planting is 22 percent complete versus 26 percent for the five-year average. At this time a year ago, the planting progress was zero for corn. Soybean planting is barely under way at 1 percent.

Sugarbeets are 24 percent planted compared with 37 percent for the five-year average. Potatoes at 19 percent planted are nearly at the five-year average pace of 20 percent.

Green peas and sweet corn for processing plants are 22 percent and 4 percent planted, respectively.

On the Net: http://www.nass.usda.gov/mn/