The following reports are for crop conditions up to April 2, 2021.
Western Maryland
March is usually a month of somewhat turbulent, and this year was no exception. We have had high temperatures in the 70’s and the 40’s with several nights in the 20’s. We have been blessed with moisture that has almost like clockwork followed by a day or two of high winds. In short, soil moisture is good, but soil temperatures are still low, so everyone with a corn planter is getting itchy. Wheat, triticale, and other grains have been fertilized, and weed control has also been applied. Manure pits are being emptied, and poultry litter is being spread in anticipation of corn planting. Rising fertilizer prices are presenting challenges this spring as well. Yet in agriculture, we are internal optimists, yields will always be high, and prices will always be good. Happy Spring, everyone. —Jeff Semler, Washington Co.
Northern Maryland
Prior to a few storms over the past couple of weeks, the region has been on the dry side. With the recent rains we are now leaning on the wet side. Temperature fluctuations this winter led to some very stressed-looking wheat, but plants have recovered nicely now that nitrogen applications have been made and wheat should be jointing in the next week or so if temperatures warm. Lime, litter, and fertilizer applications continue where the ground is fit; although there has been some availability issues with lime. As long as the weather cooperates, planting should begin in 2-3 weeks.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.
Upper & Mid Shore
The first application of nitrogen went on small grains a couple weeks ago. Wheat and barley are growing well with the recent warm weather. Lime, manure, and potash applicators have been in high gear on the few dry days in between the many wet days. A few of last fall/winters harvest ruts have been worked out, but many still remain. It’s starting off to look like a long spring as the wet weather continues! —Jim Lewis, Caroline Co.
Lower Shore
Winter wheat is looking good. Growers have been applying manure and working the land in some fields. Only about 10% of cover crops have been terminated as of now. I have not seen any early season corn planted yet. Fields are quite wet due to recent rains, with another 1+ inch of rain forecasted for this week.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.
Southern Maryland
Farmers are busy preparing for planting and the upcoming growing season. The region had a few good weeks of conditions for fieldwork until rain set in recently. Everyone is busy spreading litter/manure, applying herbicides and completing field operations before planting commences in the next couple of weeks. Small grain crops are only in fair condition with many fields with sparse areas do to wet conditions in the fall. There have been some issues with sourcing crop inputs. Hayfields are greening up now. —Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.
