Now that spring has sprung, farmers are starting to get busy in the fields. Here are some recent stories about impacts of climate variability on crops around the country.
The Packer reported that due to the record-setting warmth in California this winter, broccoli and cauliflower crops are up to two weeks ahead of schedule. Unfortunately, the cold and snowy conditions in the East have dampened demand for fresh vegetables, reducing prices for now. They should rebound now that warmer conditions are returning to the area. You can read the story here.
Corn is starting to be planted in south Georgia, according to Rome Ethredge in Seminole Crop E News. He showed some pictures of corn seedlings that have done well in spite of fairly cool soils. You can see the photos and read his report here. One of the photos is shown below. The Packer also reported that Florida corn is doing well although it suffered minor damage in some areas due to a cold snap on February 27.
Finally, AgWeb reported that floods in some parts of the Southeast will slow planting of corn in those areas by as much as two weeks. The combination of melting snow and heavy rains has produced flooding in some areas, leading to problems getting into the fields. By comparison, Midwestern corn should be up to two weeks early due to recent warm temperatures.
