Reports are for crop conditions up to April 1, 2020
Western Maryland
Temperatures have been above normal for most of the month. Soil moisture is also slightly above average. Manure applications as well as commercial fertilizer applications are in full swing. Small grains are looking good and in some cases oats have overwintered without significant damage, increasing potential forage options. Corn will soon be going in the ground and some sweet corn is already planted. Will the mild winter result in increased weed, insect and disease issues this year? Only time will tell. –Jeff Semler, Washington Co.
Central Maryland
Farmers have been applying manure and fertilizer over the last couple of weeks. It’s been a bit wet, but it’s warming up, and we’ll see more planters in the fields over the next few weeks. I have gotten several questions about controlling Japanese stiltgrass, mostly in pastures and hay fields. Japanese stiltgrass is an annual, so the key is to prevent it from producing seeds. It also germinates earlier than crabgrass, so it is important if you have stiltgrass to be out earlier (i.e. late winter/early spring) when scouting and using control methods like a pre-emergent herbicide. For more information, please visit the Frederick County Ag FAQs page. –Kelly Nichols, Frederick Co.
Northern Maryland
It’s been a mild March and small grains are off to a quick start. Most all wheat has had it’s second shot of nitrogen and is coming along nicely. Field conditions have been fair, although a tad on the wet side that has interrupted some field work, like manure applications; but overall, not a bad start to the 2020 field season. Soils are warming up fast and planters should be hitting the fields in a couple of weeks. –Andy Kness, Harford Co.
Upper and Mid Shore
Most lime has been spread. Most second applications of nitrogen with herbicide have been made to small grains. Over half of manure has been spread and cover crop burn down started a couple weeks ago. Planters are ready to, just waiting on warmer/drier weather. –Jim Lewis, Caroline Co.
Lower Shore
Winter wheat looks good in many fields. We have seen much growth in the past two weeks. Growers have been applying manure across the region. Cover crops have been terminated on what seems to be about half of the acreage. I have not seen any early season corn planted yet. Field conditions are quite wet at the moment due to recent rains. –Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.
Southern Maryland
Farmers are busy preparing for planting. Rain showers have slowed some field work. Everyone is busy spreading litter/manure, applying herbicides and completing field operations before planting commences in the next week or so. Small grain crops are at jointing stage. Most of the second N applications have been made. Hay fields are greening up now. We have not experienced any issues with crop inputs. –Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.
