The Wheat Update has been published, and distribution should be completed this week. The latest USDA estimates for Arkansas indicate over 60 million bushels of wheat. Top performing varieties were AgriPro Shelby, Delta King 1551W, NK Coker 9663, Pioneer 2684, Roane and Terral TV 8555. Many farmers report heavy discounts on test weight. Many high-yielding, disease resistant varieties are available that have test weights over 58 lbs.
Most irrigation is complete.
Harvest has begun in south and central Arkansas and should be statewide by August 15. The abundant June rains have resulted in one of the best grain sorghum crops. Irrigation can be terminated when the grain is hard dough. This is usually noted by a change in grain color from green to bronze. Pastures Fall armyworms continue to cause problems in pastures and are occurring in large numbers.