Southwest Michigan Crops Show Resilience Amid Dry Conditions
Despite limited rainfall, crops in Southwest Michigan are progressing well. Corn fields have entered reproductive growth stages, with many in the R2 to R4 stages. Farmers are advised to scout for tar spot, a disease confirmed in Calhoun and Jackson counties. The risk remains low to moderate, but cooler conditions and irrigation could increase disease pressure. Soybeans are advancing to the R5 stage, with some fields at risk of white mold. Potato crops are in tuber bulking stages, with early fields nearing harvest. Water management is crucial, as corn and soybeans require significant water to maintain growth.