Apr 8, 2019Eastern Idaho growers could experience slight planting delay
Potato growers in eastern Idaho could see some slight planting delays, but not nearly as drastic as their Pacific Northwest counterparts in Washington and Oregon.
The Idaho Falls Post Register reports farmers may have to delay planting a few days while their fields dry. Grower Bart Wattenbarger normally plants between April 15 and April 18, but it could be closer to April 20, he told the Post Register.
“Soil moisture and temperatures will control our decisions,” he said.
The National Weather Service predicts above-average temperatures and precipitation for the region during the months of April, May and June, which has growers optimistic.
In Washington, potato planting is a month behind schedule, which has growers anxious on whether their crop will mature in time to meet processing deadlines needs. Planting also was behind schedule in North Carolina this spring.
