Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending August 24, 2014.
GENERAL
According to the National Agriculture Statistics Service South Carolina Field Office, there were 6.6 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, August 24th, 2014. The State average rainfall for the seven-day period was 0.4 inches. The State average temperature for the week was five degrees above the long-term average. Soil moisture ratings for topsoil were reported at 4% very short, 25% short, 67% adequate, and 4% surplus. Soil moisture ratings for subsoil were reported at 5% very short, 24% short, 69% adequate, and 2% surplus.
COUNTY AGENTS COMMENTS
“An extremely hot week readied the corn crop for harvest as drying took place at a rapid rate. Some farmers in the area started harvest last week while others will wait until the tobacco crop is completely out of the field. Tobacco producers are working hard to get this crop finished up by the end of next week. The crop is much later than normal but it is a good crop. Cotton, peanuts and soybeans look good. We received 0.5 inch of rain Saturday night which will help all three crops especially cotton and soybeans.”
–Kyle Daniel, Georgetown County, District 30
“Hot dry conditions are helping with corn harvest, but are causing stress to cotton, peanuts, and soybeans.”
–Charles Davis, Calhoun County, District 50
“Corn harvest is progressing at a good pace. Hot, dry conditions are stressing soybeans, peanuts, and cotton. Some farmers have had to treat insects in some soybeans.”
–Mark Nettles, Orangeburg County, District 50
“A week of stifling temperatures and no rain is putting stress on fruiting crops such as cotton, soybeans and peanuts. But, these crops have been able to maintain their condition and yield potential. Rain is needed soon to prevent reduction in condition and yield potential. No insect or disease problems reported. Corn harvest is progressing exceptionally well. Peach harvest is complete.”
–Hugh Gray, Allendale County, District 80
