The quality of North Dakota's spring wheat and durum crops has showed increased variety, with a noteworthy fall in overall condition this week. While some places have robust plant growth, normal crop height, and promising spikelet and kernel development, others have shorter crops, sparse stands, and smaller heads. Crop conditions might change due to factors such as irregular rainfall, planting dates, and temperature fluctuations.
According to the USDA Crop Progress report, 40% of North Dakota's spring wheat crop is good to excellent, with the remaining 17% falling bad to very poor. These ratings indicate below-average spring wheat conditions, with yields ranging from average to below-average in most places. By the first week of July, approximately two-thirds of the crop is still in good to excellent condition. The current mild weather may bring some comfort.
Nationally, 48% of spring wheat across the country is rated as good to excellent, slightly lower than last year's 50%. The states of Minnesota and Montana have the highest condition ratings. In terms of crop development, approximately half of the U.S. spring wheat has reached the heading stage, with North Dakota leading at 47%.
North Dakota's durum crop has been better than spring wheat, but dry conditions have caused stress in some areas. The majority of the crop maintains good to excellent condition, with a decrease from 73% to 64%. Only 5% are classified as low to very poor.
One-third of the state's durum crop has reached the heading stage, which is ahead of last year's pace. Montana's crop development is lagging, with only 7% of the durum reaching the heading stage, while the remainder of the crop is still in fair to good condition.
The fluctuating temperatures and dry period pose challenges for grain farmers in North Dakota, indicating a mixed picture for spring wheat and durum crops.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Wheat