Minn. Crops Thrive In Heat, Humidity

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesota crops developed quickly in the heat and humidity last week.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's weekly crop report says the share of soybeans that are blooming advanced 15 percentage points to 72 percent, still down from 86 percent for the five-year average.

Likewise, corn silking advanced 29 points from the previous week to 83 percent, compared to 85 percent for the five-year average. The crop was rated 74 percent good to excellent.

Small grains were also rapidly developing. For example, 59 percent of spring wheat was turning ripe, a 29 percentage point advancement over the previous week.

Topsoil moisture supplies were rated 2 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. Statewide, there were just less than five days suitable for fieldwork last week.

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