Ukraine. Planting of early grains is drawing to an end

Weather conditions. April witnessed a record number of days with frost in the air, on the ground and at 2 cm above the ground – from 16-19 days in Khmelnytsky and Odesa regions to 21-26 days in other parts of Ukraine. In single fields, these events partially damaged spring barley, pea and sugar beet crops. The weather on May 1-8 was moderately warm with a significant temperature decline on last days of this period. The average air temperature in most of the country was close to normal.

Moisture supply. Precipitation deficits, low relative air humidity and insufficient soil moisture in March-April were unfavorable factors for all crops. They led to the development of air drought and (locally in the south and southeast) soil drought.

Crop condition. Rainfall and optimal air and soil temperatures on May 1-5 benefited plant growth and development. Planting of early spring grains is drawing to an end, while that of late crops is going on. Winter crops are rated fair and good; spring crops are in good condition, UkrAgroConsult reports.