Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending September 7, 2014.
Summary: Heavy rainfall occurred throughout much of the state last week. The High Plains, Trans-Pecos and Upper Coast received up to 5 inches in isolated areas, while East Texas, South Texas, and the Lower Valley saw between 1 to 4 inches. South Central Texas and the Coastal Blend also received significant rainfall, totaling up to 3 inches in some areas. Other areas in the state received no more than 1 inch of rainfall. High temperatures in the mid 90’s persisted throughout many areas of the state, with the exception of the Upper Coast, which reported highs in the 80’s.
Small Grains: Producers began seeding winter wheat in the Northern High Plains with preparations continuing throughout most of the state.
Row Crops: Corn harvest continued in the Northern Plains, Blacklands, and North East Texas, with harvest wrapping up in areas of South East Texas. Cotton bolls were opening in the Northern High Plains, Trans-Pecos, and Edwards Plateau. In areas of South Texas and the Upper Coast, cotton harvest was active. Sorghum harvest continued across the state, though sugarcane aphid infestations persisted in areas of the Blacklands. Soybeans were setting pods in the Northern High Plains. Some producers in the Upper Coast reported delayed rice harvest due to heavy rainfall.
Fruit, Vegetable and Specialty Crops: Pecans continued to mature in South Texas and the Trans-Pecos, though some producers reported scab and light insect pressure in North East Texas. Fall onions and tomatoes progressed in areas of the Lower Valley.
Livestock, Range and Pasture: Pasture showed stress in areas of the Blacklands and North East Texas due to hot, dry weather conditions. Armyworms and grasshoppers continued to cause problems for some forage producers in North East Texas. Livestock were in good to fair condition in most areas of the state. In South Central Texas, some producers began supplemental feeding due to lack of rainfall.
