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Corn across the state was 87 percent in dough stage and 47 percent dented. Remember – those phrases, “dough” and “dent” are descriptions of how mature the ears of corn on that plant really are. Dough and dent describe the kernel on the ear. Three percent of corn was mature, compared to 14 percent last year and 6 percent five-year average.
Corn silage harvest has started with most silage being taken where soils are driest. Additional rain and warmth were needed to help fill ears and kernels.
Statewide, 12 percent of soybeans had leaves turning color – a sign of plant maturity. Soybeans in a few areas have begun dropping leaves. In areas with adequate moisture the crop was reportedly in excellent condition, though reporters in southern Wisconsin comment that rain is badly needed to fill the pods.
Haying progressed well with hot, dry weather early in the week. The third crop hay harvest was 93 percent complete, and the fourth crop harvest was 27 percent complete.
Apples were reportedly plentiful this year, with the earliest varieties just starting to be picked this week. In the dry southern areas, some trees are dropping fruit. After the hot summer, tomatoes across the state were reported in good to excellent condition.
A reporter from Eau Claire County stated that the elderberry and grape crops were above normal. Wine grapes were being harvested in Vernon. Waupaca County’s fall raspberry crop was reportedly excellent this year. A reporter from Oneida County stated that the cranberry crop was maturing well, and harvest is expected to begin around October 1.
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