While poor planting conditions are challenging U.S. growers throughout the country’s Corn Belt this spring, farmers in Canada have their own weather problems to contend with.

The USDA reported on June 3 that due to ongoing wet and chilly weather only 67% of corn crop is in the ground compared to the 5 year average of 96%, and only 39% of soybean acres had been planted vs. the 5 year average of 79%. https://www.agequipmentintelligence.com/articles/2963-pace-of-corn-soybean-plantings-continue-to-fall-seriously-behind-schedule

At the same time, Statistics Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada reported on June 4 that crop development is running behind average across much of Canada, with excessive moisture delaying seeding in Ontario and dryness slowing crop development across all three Prairie provinces.

“Dry conditions in the last few weeks preceding May 26 allowed seeding to take place normally, however the low moisture content of the topsoil is a concern and more rain is needed for normal crop growth,” Statistics Canada reported. Rainfall across the Prairies was 40-60% below normal in the previous 2 months, according to AAFC.

Statistics Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada estimates that as of May 28, 94% of Manitoba's crop was seeded as compared to the 5 year average of 88%; 92% of Saskatchewan's crop was seeded as compared to the 5 year average of 83%; in Alberta, 91% of the major crops was seeded as of May 28 which compares to the 5 year average of 79%.

On the other hand, spring precipitation in eastern Ontario and Nova Scotia was as much as 50% above normal, according to the report. “The conditions were delaying planting and warmer and drier weather will be needed,” it said.