Over half of spring seeding has been completed despite delays due to rainfall according to the Crop Report for May 14-20 released by Saskatchewan's Ministry of Agriculture. 

Currently, 56 per cent of the 2024 crop is in the ground, compared to 32 per cent seeded last week. However, this is behind the five-year average of 76 per cent and the ten-year average of 74 per cent.

The southeast is currently sitting at 61 per cent seeded, slightly trailing the northwest and southwest, which are at 64 per cent and 63 per cent, respectively. The east-central, northeast, and west-central regions are at 54 per cent, 48 per cent, and 47 per cent, respectively.

Rainfall occurred in varying amounts over the past week. Although the rain has helped replenish topsoil moisture levels and improve growing conditions, many producers are looking for a pause in precipitation to allow seeding progress to continue.

Cropland topsoil moisture is reported at six per cent surplus, 89 per cent adequate, and five per cent short. Hayland topsoil moisture is reported at three per cent surplus, 85 per cent adequate, 11 per cent short, and one per cent very short. Similarly, pasture topsoil moisture is rated at three per cent surplus, 83 per cent adequate, 12 per cent short, and two per cent very short.

Crops that were seeded early are beginning to emerge throughout the province, with good emergence reported overall. Crop development is within the expected range for this time of year, but seeding delays due to precipitation and cooler temperatures have slowed development in some regions.As crop emergence continues, producers are monitoring damage to their crops. Much of the crop damage this week was due to frost, minor flooding, wind, and hail. Some producers have reported crop damage due to cutworms, wireworms, and flea beetles, although these issues are not widespread.

Pasture conditions continue to be monitored as producers move cattle. Currently, pasture conditions are rated at 12 per cent excellent, 55 per cent good, 26 per cent fair, six per cent poor, and one per cent very poor across the province.

As the weather allows, producers will continue with seeding operations, herbicide applications, moving cattle to pasture, and branding. Producers are reminded to keep safety top of mind while working.