Manitoba Agriculture has released the latest edition of the Potato Report - here is the Executive Summary
Fields planted mid-May or earlier have 50% or over emergence. Later planted fields are now close to emergence. Plants are now up to 12-inch height in early planted fields, and many fields have started showing tuber initiation within 4 to 6 weeks.
Hilling and dam/dike operations are in full swing. Weed control spray applications have also started, and ground sprays for weed control have also started. Cull piles in and around fields and farmyards; cull piles can be a source of disease inoculum and insect pests. Colorado potato beetles – adults and egg masses have already been seen in some cull piles.
By June 8, the cumulative heat units, GDD, were still above normal, around 119 to 138% of normal, continuing a warm beginning of the season.
There was scattered and inconsistent amounts of rainfall during the week of June 2 - 8. Soils in the 0-30cm profile is getting drier. Many fields have started irrigating.
Some rainfall is forecast for June 16, and it may also be unevenly distributed in potato growing areas of Manitoba. There is a forecast is for warm temperatures towards end of the week.
The potato report includes information provided by the growers and crop consultants.
To view the latest edition of the Potato Report click here.