We have been on the typical March roller coaster for weather lately.  We have generally been fairly mild but have gone from a few days around 80°F to some morning lows in the upper 20s.  We have still been relatively dry for the month of March with only 1.54” of rain to date (as of 3/25/24).  The soil has some moisture in it but is very dry for what is typical this time of year.  There is rain predicted for the last week of the month but we will see how much that actually yields.  Temperature forecasts still warn that we are not out of the woods for some more cold weather; we shall see!

Out in the field, there have been good opportunities to plant early spring vegetables like peas, greens, radishes, and carrots.  If anything, the challenge has been getting good germination due to the dry soil conditions, especially for things like carrots which need consistent moisture to germinate.  Fruit crops are starting to take off.  One surprise was asparagus that is up and growing already! I had some early spears ready to harvest on 3/13.  While you may see spears start to emerge at this time, usually it’s at least the end of the month before anything is near harvest.  Cover crops are taking off as well. I’ve shared some cover crop updates in a separate article later in this issue.

Apricots bloomed early this month and pears are just starting to finish blooming.  Apples will be blooming soon and then blueberries as well later after that.  I have continually battled the pH in my blueberry planting and did some top-dressed sulfur to help maintain the levels.  I also use iron sulfate annually to reduce pH and supply the needed iron. 

As the season gets busy don’t forget you can go online to the Midwest Vegetable Production Guide and search directly for different pest and crop issues!  Works great from any device; phone included!