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Davenport farmer hesitant to plant crops right now because of this one thing

Rainfall for spring is three inches behind normal in the QCA, and for farmers planting their seeds, that's a good thing.

DAVENPORT, Iowa — The Quad Cities Area is off to a dryer start this spring, and for farmers planting their seeds, that's a good thing.

Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows at the end of April 2023 26% of corn in the U.S. was already planted, and for soybeans 19%. Successful Farming, an agriculture magazine, broke down the USDA's crop progress and conditions report, and you can find those numbers by clicking/tapping here.

News 8's Charles Hart spoke with Davenport farmer Robb Ewoldt who said dry conditions are favorable for planting.

"Dry conditions are always good when we're trying to plant," Ewoldt said. "We can produce bigger yields if we plant our seeds into dry dirt versus wet soil. Now, granted, we need the rain later on."

Even though dry conditions bode well for planting crops, Ewoldt said there is a concern for farmers right now.

"When we're planting, is dealing with the soil temperatures, that's the main thing, we've been a lot cooler than normal," Ewoldt said. "And it makes farmers question whether they should be planting right now or not."

Ewoldt said the first 36 hours is very critical to a corn seed, when planted in the ground. This is because cool soil temperatures can affect a seed negatively. He said they're waiting for temperatures to warm up.

Planting during dry season isn't just for farmers, an article from the Associated Press states dry conditions are the best time to prep your soil for your home garden. News 8's plant expert Craig Hignight said Mother's Day weekend is the best time plant.

You can catch more tips on your lawn and plants every Wednesday from Craig Hignight on Good Morning Quad Cities at 11.

The USDA said by the end of April, six percent of corn in the U.S. started to grow.


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