Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending May 10, 2015.
General: According to the National Agriculture Statistics Service’s South Carolina Field Office, there were 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, May 10, 2015. Precipitation estimates for the state ranged from 0.0 inches of rain up to 0.8 inches. Average high temperatures ranged from the low to the mid 80s. Average low temperatures ranged from the mid 50s to the low 60s.
County Extension Comments
Georgetown County, District #30, Kyle Daniel: “Rain from Tropical Storm Ana halted field work for the weekend. Plantings along with the cultivation of tobacco were kept to a minimum. Crops look good at this point just slow growth with the really cool days and nights last week. This week is shaping up to be much warmer and much more favorable for plant growth.”
Calhoun County, District #50, Charles Davis: “Planting of cotton and peanuts continues at full speed.”
Orangeburg County, District #50, Mark Nettles: “Good weather conditions allowed farmers to conduct field operations at full speed. Farmers with modern technology can plant many acres in a week’s time. Cotton is being planted , and farmers planting peanuts as well.
Cool nights have slowed the maturing and setting of fruit for some area tomato producers. Sweet corn is progressing at a good pace. Some areas near the coast have a surplus of soil moisture, while some of the inland areas are showing signs of moisture depletion.”
Allendale County, District #80, Hugh Gray: “The soil moisture in many areas is insufficient and planting of cotton, peanuts, and soybeans has stopped. A good rain is needed for planting to resume. Early maturing peaches are in excellent condition and harvesting will begin in a couple of weeks. Routine pesticide applications are being made to peaches.
Tomatoes and cucurbits are progressing well and also in excellent condition. Small grain has begun to change color and is progressing toward maturity. No insect or disease problems reported in any crops.”
