T
he National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center 8-to-14-day outlook for August 13 to August 19, 2025, remains unchanged from last week, predicting above-normal temperatures and a leaning-above-average precipitation outlook for our area of the Midwest. The MSU Enviroweather station at Applewood Orchards recorded 1,939.9 growing degree days (GDD) since April 1, slightly lower than last year's record-breaking 2,051.8 GDD. Rainfall in the same period has been above average, with 3.12 inches recorded compared to a ten-year average of 2.97 inches.
Japanese beetles are actively feeding on corn silks and soybean leaves, but some silk clipping is not typically a concern due to the rapid growth rate of corn silks. Holes in soybean leaves can be a problem until all leaves are scouted, rather than just the worst ones. Normally, soybeans do not require insecticide sprays, except for spider mites in droughty areas.
The 2025 Wheat Variety Trial results have not been released yet, but now is a good time to seed cover crops that will either overwinter or winter kill. The Monroe County Community College Student Ag Farm has planted nine different single species or multi-species cover crops, including cereal rye and red clover. These will be discussed at the September 11 Farmer Field Day.
The Federal Reserve Bank's Beige Book reports a modest, neutral, or weak outlook for the agricultural sector in the Chicago District, which includes Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Crop yields are expected to be good to excellent, but prices are low, with beef being an exception. Higher input costs, trade uncertainty, and export opportunities contribute to ongoing caution about farm incomes.
Harvesting vegetables from your own garden or orchard is a rewarding experience. Pick produce early in the day when it's at its juiciest and most flavorful. Check the garden daily to harvest only ripe fruits, as larger items may not taste better. Different types of produce ripen at different times, so be sure to check their specific needs.
