Dry Conditions Slow Crop Planting

Previous 30 days rainfall leaves North Florida with many unplanted fields.

Previous 30 days rainfall leaves North Florida with many unplanted fields.

Farmers in Columbia County have faced dry conditions the last 30 days which resulted in poor planting conditions for crops. Rainfall on April 4th, 5th, and 6th replenished soil moisture and allowed a timely start to the season. However, evaporation from the sandy soil left only a short window of suitable conditions. Farmland without irrigation remains unplanted in most cases. Irrigated farmland was planted timely as farmers could control soil moisture conditions. The final planting date for peanuts in Columbia County is June 5th. This is the last day a producer may plant and be eligible for full crop insurance coverage. A slow-moving front has the potential to bring widespread rain to the area in the next few days, allowing planting to resume.

Some farms were planted following rainfall on April 4th through 6th. However many non-irrigated fields remain unplanted.

Some farms were planted following rainfall on April 4th through 6th. However many non-irrigated fields remain unplanted.

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