Early Start and Soybean Emergence
We kicked off planting season on April 9 with warm weather and high hopes. The soil conditions looked promising, and we got an early start with a small field of soybeans. Just last week, those soybeans finally broke through the surface, only to be greeted by a late frost. Thankfully, they seem to have weathered the chill just fine. We’ll know for sure in a few more days, but with the seed guarantee in place, we’re not too worried.
Pausing Planting to Spread Risk
By mid-April, about two-thirds of our corn and soybeans had been planted. With a cold, wet forecast looming, we made the tough decision to pause planting. It’s always a balancing act between risk and reward, and this year we chose to spread the risk. The choice likely means our harvest will be stretched out, but it also gives us peace of mind.
Heavy Rains and a Two-Week Break
And the forecast delivered, within three days, we had more than five inches of rain. The fields turned into mud, with water pooling into what we jokingly call Lake Louis and the Kapraun River. Mike and I even managed a little “mudding” while dodging the standing water. All that rain brought us a two-week break from planting.
Family Moments Amid the Pause
In the meantime, life carried on. We celebrated graduations and Mother’s Day, and took time to care for loved ones who were under the weather. Farming life reminds us to pause and prioritize what matters.
Weather Patterns and Changing Cycles
This spring marks the third time in four years that we’ve had multiple heavy rain events of three to five inches. It feels like our weather cycle is shifting, putting extra pressure on our older tile systems and waterways. Still, I remind myself that this is far better than the 1980s, when we endured long stretches of hot, dry summers.
Moving Forward with Hope
Last year was one of the toughest we’ve faced, but this year has been different. Despite dodging rainstorms and cold snaps, we’ve been blessed with short windows that allowed us to get crops in the ground. With a little luck, we’ll finish planting soybeans today before another big rain event rolls through later this week.
Once the skies clear, we’ll turn our attention to repairing washouts and waterways; work that has become part of our spring routine.
Closing Thoughts
Through it all, we’re grateful for the blessings we’ve had and hopeful for the season ahead. Wishing good health to all, and praying for an end to this time of captivity.
—Joe
He does NOT take orders well (like how to wear a mask- I left mine on)
Dad was ecstatic to have a visitor!
5/9/20 The Freeze (28 degrees for 2 hours)
I think we will be ok (fortunately, the soybean seed is guaranteed)
But here is the forecast…..
Have not used this in 15-20 years (but we have it just in case!)
