But constant precipitation can present challenges, say growers
Aug 17, 2008 - 04:45 AM
By Jeff Hayward
UXBRIDGE -- One may think the constant rain this summer is a blessing to farmers, but there are challenges along with it that dampen the positives, according to growers.
Rob Evans was helping out on his cousin's farm near Epsom on July 29, harvesting hay for cow feed from a 25-acre field. But he said it's difficult to keep up with collecting the crop, as the rain has accelerated its growth.
"The more mature the (hay), the less protein in it," said Mr. Evans. And the problem doesn't end after the crop is cut, he said. "As soon as we cut it, we don't want rain on it, it'll start to rot."
Also planted on that property is feed corn, with the stalks reaching higher than usual for this time of year.
"It's normally (only) knee-high by the first of July," said Mr. Evans, looking at the stalks that have sprouted over six feet above the soil. "Rain is good for the corn, the problem is, with all the water we're not getting the hot days to make (the ears) grow."
Meanwhile, Carl Evans was navigating a combine through a Scugog farm near Greenbank, reaping soft red winter wheat. The rain has produced a good yield of the grain, he said.
"We're hoping for 80 bushels (per acre) and we're averaging 100 (bushels) per acre so far," he said. But volume isn't everything, he added. "Getting a good quality is harder."
Holding up a handful of the harvested crop, Carl Evans pointed out some shrunken and white kernels. "You're only allowed a certain percentage of (white) kernels, otherwise you're dropping your price," he explained.
Also on the rented property is soy beans, which is thriving in the wet weather. "It's looking good, the hot, humid days are good for soy."
Overall, farming is a bit of guessing game, he said.
"We try to put a hand in every pot, it averages out, some years wheat does better than corn."
On Durham Road 1 in Leaskdale, Anthony Sarino grows raspberries and strawberries on his property, Spring View Farms. The rain hasn't managed to dampen Mr. Sarino's spirits.
"We had a super strawberry crop," he said, adding on the downside, precipitation discourages some people from coming out to collect the fruit.
Strawberry picking season is all but over, but there are still raspberries available, he said. "Raspberries easily develop mould and rot (from moisture)," he explained, noting he has an advantage as the higher altitude of the farm allows wind to blow out mold spores. There are no fungicides sprayed on the crops at Spring View. "We don't believe you should be eating chemicals."
Spring View also produces pumpkins in October for the Thanksgiving season, he said, adding mildew can stunt the growth of the big gourds. But he is positive the crop will be good this year.
"I don't think (the rain) will affect it much," said Mr. Sarino.
All three farmers noted weeds among the crops is another problem fuelled by the frequent drizzle.
"The weeds are bad, last year it was so dry the weeds had no competition," said Carl Evans.
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