Cool temperatures and spotty rainfall continue to slow crop emergence across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, even as farmers make rapid planting progress. In Tuesday’s Crop Watch broadcast, Belgrade, Minnesota area farmer John Mages said most of the corn has been planted across central Minnesota, although soybeans and edible beans are still going in the ground. “We could use a little more rain,” said Mages. “It was getting pretty dry toward the end of planting. A good soaker wouldn’t hurt nothing.” Mages said earlier planted corn in lower areas has started emerging, but much of the crop remains underground due to the cool May weather. Alfalfa growth has also been slow because of the cold and dry conditions.
