Moisture is critical for corn crop

By FRITZ BUSCH

Journal Staff Writer

SLEEPY EYE -- Wednesday night's thunderstorm, which brought up to an inch of rain to the area, was a welcome addition to most fields.

"This is the time of year -- with corn heading into tasseling -- when moisture is critical. The crop needs a good inch of rain each week," said University of Minnesota Agriculture Extension Educator Wayne Schoper from his Sleepy Eye office.

Straight line winds knocked down some corn in the Lafayette and Gibbon areas as the storm front raced through the area from the northwest.

Schoper said he did not hear of any hail reports.

Straightline winds and heavy rains caused damage in the Fairfax area. Police reported winds of near 70 miles per hour throughout much of the town. Small tree branches were blown to the ground but no injuries or damage to homes were reported.

Sleepy Eye weather observer Brad Sellner reported two-tenths of an inch of rain fell Wednesday night. Several small tree branches were reported on the ground.

Street corner sweet corn stands are not open yet. Corn is still several days behind in growing degree units, according to Schoper.

He said corn looks quite good and could end up without a slowdown with warm days and nights, needed for 24-hour growth.

Soybeans look very good, Schoper said. There may be some drowned out spots, but lighter soils should have the moisture they need. There may be some standing water in some northern Brown County fields.

Small grain harvest should start over the next three days, weather permitting.

Insects and soybean rust should not be a factor, Schoper said.

"A lot could happen yet, but a good crop should be anticipated as we march toward harvest," Schoper said.

Cooler, dryer air is forecast over the next few days with little or no moisture forecast at least through next Wednesday. Highs should be 75 to 80 through Monday under clear to partly cloudy skies.