Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 19, Number 71, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 13 May 1898 — THE SAME COMPLAINT. [ARTICLE]

THE SAME COMPLAINT.

Farmer* Find the Weather Too Cold and Wet to Make Good Progre»* in Work. Chicago, May 11. —The reports as to the condition of the crops throughout the country, and the general effect of the weather on the growth, cultivation and harvest of the same, were Tuesday made by the directors of the several climate and crop sections. The reports received at Chicago were as follows: Michigan—Weather and soil too cold for much advancement of vegetation. Winter wheat is generally very promising and has Improved in color and vitality, but grows slow on account of cold. Oats nearly all sown, and much corn ground prepared, with soil in fine condition. Corn planting begun. Fruit conditions continue very promising. Indiana—Cold weather and frequent rains were favorable to growing crops, but corn planting was delayed. Heavy snow cn Thursday in. the southern portion broke some wheat at the Joints. Wheat in general In most excellent condition, fresh and green, growing nicely, even fields which had been under water promise half a crop. All crops are In good condition, and fruit trees are covered with bloom. Illinois—Week much too cold, wet and cloudy for farm work or good growth; wheat, rye, oats and grasses, however, did well, gardens and potatoes fair; wheat Is generally in fine condition, and much improved over condition one month since; insect life scarce. Little corn land plowed or planted, but with favorable weather thia week work will be general and rapid; fruits unharmed by light frosts and very promising. Wisconsin—Early part of week wet. cloudy and cool with freezing temperatures in some counties in central and northern section*. Latter part much warmer, with full sunshine. Winter wheat and rya doing well. Spring seeding germinated well and early sown appears thick, even and healthy. Preparation for corn about completed. Fruit prospect good. lowa—Unseasonably cold and cloudy except last two days. Numerous light showera retarded field work first half of week. Corn planting begun and will be general the coming week. Spring wheat in northern and central districts doing notably well. Winter wheat in southern districts below average, but improving. No damage to fruit by recent frost*.