Seeding in Saskatchewan nearing completion, but more rain needed

Seeding is nearly complete in Saskatchewan.

In its weekly crop report, the Ministry of Agriculture said 97 per cent of the crop is in the ground in the province. The five-year average for this time of year is 92 per cent.

Seeding is 98 per cent done in the southeast, west-central, northeast and northwest regions, 96 per cent complete in the southwest and 94 per cent along in the east-central area.

However, more rain is required, as moisture levels are starting to decrease again despite recent rains.

Cropland topsoil moisture now is considered zero per cent surplus, 72 per cent adequate, 20 per cent short and eight per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 58 per cent adequate, 29 per cent short and 13 per cent very short.

The ministry said the majority of the crops in Saskatchewan are in good condition.

Crops like canola and mustard are rated as fair to good. There has been some reduced germination due to strong winds, a lack of moisture and the arrival of flea beetles.

Later-seeded crops are benefitting from the recent rains and emerging more evenly, but crops that were in the ground earlier now are developing well.

Some crops in the province have suffered damage due to strong, dry winds, dry soil, flea beetles and gophers.