Fieldwork focused on seed-bed preparation, anhydrous ammonia application, and corn planting. Average alfalfa height is 4 to 6 inches, with no alfalfa weevil activity observed to date. Southern Illinois Dry conditions continue with 0.1 to 0.5 inch of precipitation this past week. Cooler temperatures have slowed growth somewhat. Wheat is generally approaching full flag leaf.
Cressleaf groundsel is in bloom.
Dixon Springs reports giant ragweed has reached 6 to 8 inches in height, and rhizome johnsongrass is now over 6 inches tall. A significant number of farmers have completed corn planting. Some have started to grab for the soybean bags. Concern is beginning to be expressed over dry soil conditions. Alfalfa weevil has been the only major agricultural pest problem to date.