Crop progress report 09/17: Washington harvest in full swing

From the National Agricultural Statistics Service There were 6.9 days suitable for fieldwork in Washington, unchanged from the previous week. Western Washington corn silage and seed potato harvest was in full swing. Final grass cuttings had taken place, and conditions were still dry. Central Washington had consistent hot and dry temperatures. In Yakima County, producers started to plant some fall grains despite the lack of moisture. Apple harvest continued with Gala, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and assorted Delicious varieties entering the packinghouse. Hop harvest continued. Pumpkin displays appeared at vegetable stands, and plenty of squash, tomatoes, sweet corn, and peppers were still available at farmer’s markets. Northeast Washington harvest wrapped up, and field prep was underway. The ground was short on moisture for planting, and grazing was getting sparse with the lack of rain. In east central Washington, most winter wheat planted into summer fallow was complete, with the remaining acreage to be planted in the next month or when adequate rainfall is received. Southeast Washington experienced continued dry conditions.

Washington crop progress:

Winter wheat planted: 41% this week 29% last week 42% last year 46% 5-year average Winter wheat emerged: 6% this week 4% last week 4% last year 8% 5-year average Dry edible peas harvested: 95% this week 85% last week 89% last year 89% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 3rd cutting: 91% this week 86% NA last week 83% last year 89% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 4th cutting: 54% this week 36% last week 13% last year 36% 5-year average