It is still very dry overall across our area. We have had a few scattered rain chances that have brought most at least some rain; however, we are at such an overall deficit, that it just doesn’t feel that it goes very far. Last weekend was the most “widespread” rainfall we have had, but still, some areas got as little as 0.2” but many had 0.6” to 1” with a few getting more than that in isolated areas.

Current temperatures: The saving grace across the board has been our mild temperatures. We have mainly been in the 80s for highs, although we have had a few days into the 90s. Humidity has also been fairly low compared to normal. Low humidity is great for us, but does take more water from crops. The lower temperatures alleviate some of that stress on the crops. There are rain chances this weekend, but so far, scattered and no guarantees. For now, we will take whatever we can get and at least appreciate the pleasant temperatures.

Long-term weather: In reflecting with a few local growers, this dry pattern locally started a year ago. Since the wet conditions of May of 2022, we really have not had any massively wet periods to replenish soil moisture. We had enough rain to make a good crop in 2022, but ended the season with a very dry fall; never were very wet at all for any amount of time over the winter. That spilled into spring and where we are today. Many of our crops have lived “rain to rain” during this time with struggles at different points of the season. 

Small fruit progress: In the field, we are in the midst of small fruit harvest with blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries all ripening. At home, we just finished up harvesting the last of the ‘Duke’ blueberries and now continuing on ‘Earliblue’ and the midseason varieties like ‘Bluegold’ and ‘Bluecrop.’ Yields have been very good with a very heavy bloom and fruit set.

Pests: Please be mindful of spotted wing drosophila in all small fruits. As I mentioned last month, I have observed them heavily in cherries (untreated) which is earlier than I have observed them anytime in the past. While our peach crop is limited from the winter, there are some early peaches out on the market, in limited quantities. 

Vegetable progress: Our vegetable crops are doing well, but for many, irrigation has been key to success. That does not go with out challenges, as our wildlife is feeling the effects of the drought and also appreciates those black water fountains we lay out for them. Many growers have noted lots of patching from voles and other critters chewing holes in drip tape. Early sweet corn is starting to tassel with some hope that early plantings might make that July 4th goal for fresh sweet corn. I have heard of first harvest of green beans, cucumbers, early field tomatoes, and garlic among the ending of some spring cool season crops. 

We are in the middle of the pumpkin planting season. Many growers have gone to drip irrigation just to get moisture to germinate direct-seeded pumpkins. At home, I transplant pumpkins as a double crop after wheat harvest. Transplants are seeded and will be ready in about a week which should coincide with wheat harvest. Wheat does not take up any moisture late in the season in the weeks when it dries down for harvest, and it also shades the soil reducing evaporation. I am hopeful that will preserve any moisture we do have so the transplants have some moisture to get them established.

Remember for pumpkins or any crops, weeds are especially your enemy! You do not need any added plants growing and taking up water that the crop needs, so stay on top of weed management. (Refer to the May IFVN for some pumpkin weed management details)

The bottom line is we need at least some modest rain, especially over the next month, to help keep things growing and get late crops established. Time will tell!

Photo: ‘Duke’ Blueberries ready for harvest. Photo: N. Johanning

Nathan Johanning (618-939-3434; njohann@illinois.edu)