Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending August 16, 2015.
High temperatures and dry conditions were experienced across the state with highs ranging between the mid-90s and low 100s. Some producers in areas of the Northern High Plains and the Edwards Plateau were concerned with possible wildfire outbreaks due to dry conditions. Areas of the Edwards Plateau, South East and South Texas received upwards of 2 inches of rainfall.
Light precipitation of upwards of 0.1 of an inch was experienced in areas of the Trans-Pecos, the High and Low Plains and the Cross Timbers. Other areas of the state received little to no measurable rainfall.
Small Grains: Preparations continued for winter wheat and small grain seedings across the state. Some producers in areas of the Northern High Plains applied weed control and delayed planting due to increasing grasshopper populations.
Row Crops: Cotton continued to progress across the northern part of the state, with cotton bolls opening in areas of the Edwards Plateau, while some producers in areas of the Coastal Bend and the Lower Valley were beginning harvest. Corn and sorghum harvest continued in areas of the Blacklands, South Central and South East Texas, while in areas of the Upper Coast and South Texas harvest neared completion.
Problems with spider mites and sugarcane aphids affecting row crops were experienced in some fields in areas of the Northern High Plains. Peanuts continued to peg in areas of South Texas.
Fruit, Vegetable and Specialty Crops: Preparations for fall vegetable planting began in areas of the Lower Valley and North East Texas. Pecan development continued in areas of the Cross Timbers and South Texas.
Livestock, Range and Pasture: Livestock producers continued supplemental feeding across the state due to dryer pastures. Pond water levels began dropping from lack of precipitation in some areas. Heat stress affected livestock in some areas of South Central Texas. While livestock producers took steps to mitigate issues with feral hogs, grasshoppers, and horn flies impacting their livestock and pasture.
