Weather was cooperative last week for crop planting and development of established crops, and the forecast indicates more of the same this week. According to NDAWN, rainfall during May 1-25 ranged from 0.7 inch (Robinson) to 2.2 inches (Jamestown), with the Carrington REC receiving 1.2 inches. Most of the region’s fields have some wet sites and there will be numerous fields designated as ‘Prevent Plant’.

Alfalfa regrowth is at <12-inch height. Winter rye and winter wheat are in the jointing to heading stages, depending on last fall’s seeding dates. Small grain and corn planting generally will be completed this week. Barley and spring wheat seeded late April are at the 4- to 5-leaf stages. Based on growing degree day units, corn planted during mid-May or before should be emerged. Planting continues with soybean and dry bean. Early planted corn has 1-2 leaves and soybean in the unifoliate (VC) stage.

               Weed growth also has accelerated. We are concerned about PRE herbicide application and activation with the generally windy and dry weather, plus the ‘push’ to get crops planted. POST herbicide applications will need to be timely.

Greg Endres

Extension Cropping Systems Specialist

NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center