According to the USDA, NASS, Minnesota Field Office, average temperatures across the state were 3 degrees above normal again last week. Precipitation amounts varied, ranging from nearly a quarter of an inch in the southwest to more than 3 inches around Glencoe. Topsoil moisture supplies improved: 18% rated very short, 32% short, 47% adequate, and 3% surplus, as compared to 21% very short, 35% short, 40% adequate, and 4% surplus the previous week.

Corn was 56% at the milk stage or beyond, compared to 18%for the five-year average. Soybeans were 94 percent blooming, compared to 77% for the five-year average. The corn crop was rated 77% in fair to good condition.

The soybean crop as of Monday was rated 81%in fair to good condition. Now is the time to scout soybean fields for aphids. I’m hearing reports of threshold counts of 250 aphids/ plant in the Willmar and Windom areas with spraying is underway in Kandiyohi County.

Farm Fest is August 7-9, so stop by the Ag Tent booth #4106 and register for our grand prize drawing. Also remember to visit www.lathamseeds.com to register for the 4th Annual Latham Freedom of Independence Ride and to learn more about our Latham Country Fair on Aug. 25 in Alexander Iowa.