By Blake Jackson
As of the week ending July 14, 2024, Pennsylvania experienced favorable conditions for agricultural activities with 7.0 days suitable for fieldwork.
According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, topsoil moisture levels showed 8 percent very short, 35 percent short, and 57 percent adequate, while subsoil moisture was reported at 3 percent very short, 17 percent short, and 80 percent adequate.
Crop progress in Pennsylvania exhibited significant advancements compared to previous weeks and years. Barley was notably matured on 95 percent of intended acreage, with 85 percent already harvested for grain, surpassing both last years and the five-year average figures.
Corn progress showed 23 percent silking, indicating a notable increase from previous weeks, with an average height of 54 inches.
Alfalfa hay’s second cutting reached 60 percent completion, showing steady progress in forage production.
Soybeans were reported to be blooming on 34 percent of fields, marking substantial growth compared to historical averages.
Winter wheat showed significant maturity, with 95 percent in the coloring stage and 70 percent matured, setting the stage for imminent harvesting activities.
These updates highlight Pennsylvania’s agricultural resilience amid varied moisture conditions, underscoring progress across key crops critical to the state’s farming economy.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, Government & Policy