Majority of SC peach crop in good shape
Farmers in South Carolina report 60 percent of the 2023 corn crop was planted by mid-April. This slightly behind the 5-yr. average. Most of the peach crop is faring well this spring with 91 percent rated in fair to excellent condition.
General
According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in South Carolina, there were 5.5 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, April 16, 2023. Precipitation ranged from 0.1 inches to more than 3.0 inches of rain. Average high temperatures ranged from the low 70s to the high 70s. Average low temperatures ranged from the low 40s to the low 50s.
Crops
Most of the state continued to experience cool temperatures and scattered showers during the week. Overall crops were reported to be developing well with some pest and disease pressure increasing. Corn planting and emergence progressed, however some fields in the Lowcountry region were reported to have been flooded and will need replanted. Cotton and peanut producers made burndown applications in anticipation of planting beginning in the coming weeks. Both peaches and strawberries were reported to be progressing well with some peach varieties progressing nicely. Damage from the March freeze events has become evident for both peaches and strawberries and producers continued to note the potential damage that those events may have on other fruits and vegetables.
Livestock and Pastures
Both cattle and pastures were in relatively good condition around the state. Cool nighttime temperatures were causing warm season pastures and hayfields to be slow in breaking dormancy.
