Impact Of July’s Heat Not Known On NW Crops

The full impact of this summer’s heat wave is still unknown on crops across Central and Eastern Washington.  Independent certified crop advisersaid he is concerned about the impact of July's extended heat wave.  He said, yes, July is normally a hot month, but the intensity and length of this July was anything but normal. 

“The one grower told me recently he thought all the way back to 1987 to the last time that he has experienced bad extended of amount of temperature volume for that period of time," Suderman said.  "That period of time is also in by development activities are occurring and that can definitely negatively impact next season's yield potential.”

Suderman is reminding growers that’s when proper crop management can help.  But he was quick to point out there’s also the concern over the development of early growing varieties.

“July is when early variety of apples and pears as well are preparing for maturity and harvest, and so that can also have a detrimental effect there too.”

He added at this point, it’s a waiting game until harvest to see what, if any, impact there is on Washington crops.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com