Seeding throughout the Weyburn area is progressing nicely, especially compared to last year, says Weyburn agrologist Elaine Moats.

"Overall, about 75 per cent of crops are seeded in this area of the province, with a few producers completely done and a few just started," said Moats. "It all depends on the size of the operation and the condition of the fields after last week's wet weather.

"Things look very good in terms of ground conditions for annual crops. The plants that are coming out of the ground are coming up quite nicely and uniformly."

Some producers are simultaneously spraying for weeds on early crops and planting new ones, says Moats. Generally, crops such as lentils, chick peas, and peas are planted, as is the majority of canola. Farmers have a good start on seeding cereal grains such as barley, wheat, and oats.

Surface moisture conditions are good following last week's rain, but Moats qualifies this by saying that hay and pasture crops will need regular rain to keep going, as will soil with high sand and gravel content. The area that was really wet last year has had enough moisture to be good, but forage areas will require more moisture if a spell of hot, dry weather hits.

Wind also contributes to the loss of moisture and soil erosion, and producers saw 70-kilometre winds whip across their fields Monday and Tuesday.

The flea beetle is a concern this time of year for producers growing canola and brown and oriental mustards from mid-May onward. Tiny seedlings are most susceptible to damage from the flea beetle.

Moats said there hasn't been a grasshopper problem so far, but some producers by the U.S. border may be concerned. Wheat growers will be keeping an eye out for midge as the crops emerge from the soil.