As reported by NASS on July 5, 2011

CROPS IN GOOD SHAPE ENTERING MONTH OF JULY.  Last week’s mix of scattered rain and sunshine left most of Tennessee’s crops rated in good condition. The corn crop, in particular, has thrived so far this season, with over a quarter of the crop in excellent condition. Most areas received sufficient rain to keep soil moisture levels healthy while still providing farmers with enough dry days to conduct fieldwork. Wheat harvest and soybean planting were virtually complete across the state by week’s end. Other field activities last week included transplanting tobacco and applying pesticide treatments. Although the majority of the state’s pastures and hay fields were rated in good condition, portions of East Tennessee have received less precipitation over the past few weeks than other areas of the state and could use more rain to speed pasture and hay field re-growth.

There were 5 days suitable for fieldwork across the state. Topsoil moisture levels were rated 12 percent short, 80 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were rated 12 percent short, 83 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus. Temperatures ranged from near normal to a few degrees above normal. Precipitation levels were above normal in Middle Tennessee but below normal elsewhere, although almost all areas received some rainfall.