By Jamie Martin
New Hampshire farmers faced one of the wettest Mays on record, delaying planting and greenhouse transitions.
According to NOAA, this May was the fourth wettest in state history. Some farms struggled to move plants into water-logged fields, especially ahead of the strawberry harvest.
Olivia Saunders from the University of New Hampshire said, “The plants aren’t thriving as much as they should and aren’t growing as much as we’d like them to at this point of the year.”
Despite the difficulties, many farmers remain hopeful. At Peachblow Farm, Bob Frizzell reported delays in cutting straw and applying fungicides but said past planning helped him stay on track. He added, “The weather has not affected me that much because of the way I have set myself up over the years.”
Some, like Luke Mahoney from Brookford Farm, actually welcomed the rain, saying his sandy soil benefits from regular moisture. But he also acknowledged concerns if rainfall continues into strawberry season.
Farms are also battling plant diseases like apple scab, which thrive in wet conditions, according to specialist Liza DeGenring. She encouraged the public to support local farms, even on rainy days, saying, “This is when they really need it, not only on the beautiful days in July.”
At Sunnycrest Farm, despite earlier flooding, strawberries are now ripe and abundant. Owner Danny Hicks called May “one of the most stressful months” but said this season’s crop is one of the best in years. Their farm focuses on pick-your-own produce and welcomes families to enjoy the experience.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wiyadaa
Categories: National