The following is from the Indiana Field Office of USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service for the week ending June 27.
Consistent rainfall helped to improve soil conditions in much of the state. Soil moisture levels increased considerably from the previous week, with 89 percent of topsoil moisture reported as adequate or surplus.
The average temperature for the week was 70.5 degrees F, 2.2 degrees below normal.
The amount of rainfall varied from 0 to 7.35 inches over the week. The statewide average precipitation was 1.75 inches.
There were 4.5 days suitable for fieldwork.
Much-needed rain blanketed northern Indiana and replenished soil moisture levels. Warm, dry weather in southern Indiana spurred harvesting of winter wheat. Wheat harvested for grain remained on schedule with the five-year average.
Corn condition remained stable with 73 percent of corn rated in good to excellent condition.
Soybean condition also remained stable with 71 percent of soybean crop rated in good to excellent condition. Soybean plants have started to bloom in some parts of the state.
Where conditions allowed, the second cut of alfalfa and other hay was taken. Pasture conditions increased slightly from last week, with 69 percent of pastures rated in good to excellent condition. Livestock enjoyed rapid pasture growth and cool temperatures.
Activities for the week included hay harvesting, herbicide and fungicide applications, sheep shearing, equipment repairs and county fair attendance.
Topsoil moisture was rated very short, 2 percent; short, 9 percent; adequate, 68 percent; surplus, 21 percent.
Subsoil moisture was rated very short, 4 percent; short, 11 percent; adequate, 72 percent; surplus, 13 percent.
The crop progress schedule (last week, previous week, 2020 and 5-year average) showed: soybeans blooming, 8, 1, 9, 8; winter wheat mature, 79, 56, 67, 78; winter wheat harvested, 25, 12, 21, 32; alfalfa hay, second cutting, 33, 20, 16, NA; other hay, first cutting, 94, 90, 97, 89; other hay, second cutting, 19, 10, 7, NA.