Ninety-eight per cent of the 2012 crop has been seeded, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture’s Weekly Crop Report. Last year at this time, 82 per cent of the crop had been seeded. The five-year (2007-2011) average for this time of year is approximately 91 per cent seeded.

Ninety-seven per cent of the crop is seeded in the southeast, 98 per cent in the southwestern and northwestern regions, 96 per cent in the east-central area and 99 per cent in the west-central and northeastern regions.

Rain showers were recorded in most of the province last week, with some areas receiving over four inches of rainfall. Due to excessive moisture and lack of warm weather, crop development ranges from normal to behind normal, depending on the area. Most crops that have emerged are in good to fair condition. Producers across the province continue to deal with very wet soil conditions.

Topsoil moisture on cropland is rated as 48 per cent surplus and 52 per cent adequate. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is 27 per cent surplus, 72 per cent adequate and one per cent short.

Excess moisture is delaying in-crop pest control applications for most producers in the province. There have been reports of hail damage and localized flooding in some areas.

Farmers are busy trying to control pests and getting ready to start haying.

Follow the 2012 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKGovAg.