Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending August 17, 2014.
Summary
Most areas of the state received measurable rainfall last week. The Edwards Plateau, Trans-Pecos and High Plains received between 1 to 4 inches in isolated areas, while the Upper Coast, the Lower Valley and South East Texas saw up to 3 inches of rainfall. Other areas within the state received no more than one inch of rainfall. Hot and humid weather persisted across the state last week, with highs ranging between the mid 90s and low 100s.
Small Grains: Preparations for fall seedings continued across the state.
Row Crops: Corn harvest continued in areas of the Blacklands, Edwards Plateau, and South Texas. In the Northern High Plains, some irrigated corn continued to be cut for silage. Cotton progressed in the Low Plains and the Edwards Plateau, with some producers beginning harvest in South Texas. Sorghum harvest neared completion in areas of South Central Texas. Sugarcane aphid populations became a cause of concern for sorghum producers in the Blacklands.
Rice producers in the Upper Coast anticipate harvest in the upcoming weeks. Sunflower harvest continued in the Blacklands. Irrigated soybeans progressed in areas of the Northern High Plains.
Fruit, Vegetable and Specialty Crops: In the Cross Timbers, some pecan trees were experiencing drop, while producers continued to irrigate orchards in areas of South Texas. Sesame harvest was active in the Edwards Plateau. Watermelon harvest continued in areas of the Southern High Plains and the Cross Timbers.
Livestock, Range and Pasture: In some areas of the Coastal Blend and the Upper Coast, livestock producers reported improved cattle body conditions, while some producers in South Texas continued to provide supplemental feed due to drought conditions. Armyworm and grasshopper populations remained a concern for pastures in the Blacklands and North East Texas. Feral hog damage continued to be seen in areas of East Texas.
