Volume 61 Number 19 December 08 2016This Week's Weather & Pests The 2016 growing season was remarkable for its favorable weather, an unusually late first frost, and for stunning crop yields never before achieved in the state. After a mild winter and the second-wettest March on record, drier conditions in April supported early and rapid planting. Although May featured intervals of cool weather, corn and soybean planting was completed 1-2 weeks ahead of historical averages. Optimal June heat and rain accelerated plant development, while July growing conditions maintained exceptional crop prospects. By July 31, Wisconsin led the nation with the highest percentage of corn (87%) and soybeans (88%) in either good or excellent condition. Mid-August and September downpours drenched fields, but abnormal October heat facilitated the harvest of row crops across the state. At the close of the 2016 season, Wisconsin producers expect to harvest an unprecedented 549 million bushels of corn and 101 million bushels of soybeans. |
