Crops are developing rapidly in much of the province and growing conditions have been optimal in most areas, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture’s Weekly Crop Report. Fifty-one per cent of the fall cereals are in the dough stage while 34 per cent of spring cereals are in the heading stage. Twenty per cent of flax, 60 per cent of canola and mustard and 69 per cent of pulse crops are flowering.
Haying continues in the province as livestock producers now have 18 per cent of the hay crop cut and 11 per cent baled or put into silage. Although weather conditions have been favourable for plant growth, high humidity and frequent rain showers have prevented hay crops from drying.
Hay quality is rated as 12 per cent excellent, 72 per cent good, 14 per cent fair and two per cent poor. Pastures are growing well and are rated as 24 per cent excellent, 61 per cent good, 13 per cent fair and two per cent poor.
The majority of the province received rainfall this past week with the Outlook area reporting 95 mm. Many other areas reported well over 25 mm of rain. Across the province, topsoil moisture on cropland is rated as nine per cent surplus, 85 per cent adequate and six per cent short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as three per cent surplus, 89 per cent adequate, seven per cent short and one per cent very short.
Crop damage this week was attributed to localized flooding, strong winds and disease. Hail was reported in a few areas of the province and crops are being assessed for damage. With the high humidity and wet conditions, many producers are applying fungicides to crops.
Producers are busy with haying operations and scouting for disease and insects.
Follow the 2016 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKAgriculture.
