Crop progress report 05/26: Wet week in Washington

From the National Agricultural Statistics Service There were 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork in Washington, up from 5.3 days the previous week. Western Washington producers received rain that hindered fieldwork and planting. Early strawberries were affected by the weather conditions. Central Washington received some precipitation. Spring-seeded crops were up and looked good. In Yakima County, asparagus harvest continued, and more fields entered the fern stage. Fields were converted to black plastic beds, with most of these fields receiving seedling transplants. Fire engine red color on the early maturing cherries started showing up, but most of the fruit was still small. The first cutting of alfalfa and grass hay crops continued. Some apple fruits were reaching the diameter of a quarter in size. Hop bines were trained and ascended the trellis. Pend Oreille and Spokane counties reported receiving some precipitation. There was no hay being cut, but cattle on pastures were doing well. In east central Washington, the first cutting of alfalfa hay was underway. Wheat, onions, peas, and potato stands looked good, and corn sprouted. Windy conditions limited field activity. Southeast Washington received some rain, which helped crops.

Washington crop condition

Winter wheat: 8% very poor 12% poor 32% fair 45% good 3% excellent Spring wheat: 1% very poor 8% poor 33% fair 45% good 13% excellent Barley: 1% very poor 5% poor 31% fair 54% good 9% excellent Dry edible peas: 0% very poor 0% poor 15% fair 75% good 10% excellent

Washington crop progress:

Winter wheat headed: 46% this week 35% last week 37% last year 28% 5-year average Barley emerged: 95% this week 89% last week 79% last year 77% 5-year average Dry edible peas emerged: 84% this week 68% last week 76% last year 76% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 1st cutting: 27% this week 21% last week 33% last year 33% 5-year average