Wet Field Conditions Delay Sugarbeet Planting (05/12/22)
After a long, dry spell, sugarbeet fields in eastern North Dakota through Minnesota received 4.6 to 7.2 inches of rainfall since April 11 when planting typically starts (Figure 1). Growers in western North Dakota and Sidney, Montana received 1.93 and 1.55 inch of rainfall, respectively, over the same period. Wet and sodden field conditions in most production areas have delayed sugarbeet planting.
Daily average soil temperature increased from the mid-30s in early April and was trending towards 50°F until the rains came again during the past week (Figure 2). The weather forecast indicates a warming trend for the next week that should result in average soil temperature of 60°F.
What will adequate moisture and warm soils mean for sugarbeet germination and emergence? It will mean rapid and uniform germination and emergence; the higher the temperature, the faster the emergence (Figure 3). As such, I encourage all our producers to be patient and start planting when field conditions become favorable. Aim for about 175 to 215 plants per 100 foot of 22-inch rows to utilize the nitrogen applied and the available moisture for high tonnage and quality.
You can easily obtain soil temperature and all you need to know for sugarbeet production by downloading and using the “Sugarbeet Production Guide” App available for free download at the:
or the 2022 Sugarbeet Production Guide at:
https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/publications/2022-sugarbeet-production-guide
Best wishes for a safe planting season.
Extension Sugarbeet Specialist
NDSU & U of MN
218-790-8596
