Farmers in Manitoba are wrapping up seeding ahead of schedule, and Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) president Jill Verwey says things are looking positive so far this spring.
“I actually was in in southeastern Manitoba on Monday and seemingly the crops are on average really favourable,” notes Verwey, who also farms in the Portage area. “I think for the most part, producers are finishing up seeding and certainly heading right into the spring season.”
Cooler temperatures a hidden benefit
While smoke from wildfires has been an issue across parts of the province, Verwey says it may be helping crops in an unexpected way.
“Certainly, the smoke does pose problems, but it does actually kind of limit some of that heat,” she says. “Having the cooler temperatures right now as the crops are developing and getting a strong start.”
She adds that with crops going into the ground early this year, the potential for a good growing season is strong.
“Looking forward to a really positive year with being able to get the crop in early, it’s very positive.”
Moisture still top of mind
Despite the early success, Verwey says timely rain will be critical in the weeks ahead.
“I think the moisture level is good for the most part,” she remarks. “Certainly, we will be looking for some moisture.”
She continues, “There are pockets and parts of the province that will certainly see some strain if we don’t get a nice shot of rain here in the next little while.”
Cooler days have helped conserve the limited moisture in the soil.
“It gives the crop a chance just to utilize the moisture that is there already,” Verwey mentions. “Then for sure we’ll be looking for a nice bit of moisture to help the crop into that next stage and on into the filling stage.”
Seeding is nearly complete across Manitoba
According to Manitoba Agriculture’s June 3 Crop Report, provincial seeding progress sits at 95 per cent, well ahead of the five-year average of 85 per cent for this time of year.
Crops across the province are at various early stages of development, with cereals, corn, soybeans and canola all emerging or nearing emergence. However, most regions remain very dry, with the Eastern region reporting the highest rainfall over the past week at just 4.7 mm.
Farmers, like Verwey, are now shifting their focus to in-crop spraying and early pest management while keeping an eye on the sky.
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