Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending November 23, 2014.
Most areas of the state received precipitation last week. Rainfall was heaviest in East and Central Texas, with some areas reporting five inches or more. Many northern and central areas of the state experienced snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Small Grains: Winter wheat and oats seeding was nearing completion in most areas. Around the state, emerging small grains benefited from recent rain showers, however plant development was hampered in some areas by cold temperatures.
Row Crops: Weather conditions affected harvest activities in much of the state. Cotton, sorghum, and sunflower harvest continued in the High and Low Plains, but was delayed in some areas due to snow and rain showers. Corn harvest had mostly wrapped up around the state. In South Texas, rainfall once again slowed peanut harvest.
Fruit, Vegetable and Specialty Crops: Pecan harvest continued around the state with some pest and scab issues observed. Pecan tree defoliation had begun in areas of the Trans-Pecos. In South Texas, spinach and cabbage harvest was underway while cabbage and onion development benefited from cooler temperatures and improved soil moisture. Tomatoes, onions, and cabbage continued to progress in the Lower Valley, and citrus harvest was ramping up.
Livestock, Range and Pasture: Last week’s soaking rains left pastures and rangeland in good condition across most of the state, providing plentiful forage for livestock. However freezing temperatures and dry conditions slowed grass growth in some areas. Many producers were supplementing with hay and protein as temperatures began to fall. Stock tank levels improved with rainfall, though moisture was still needed in some areas.
