Thanks to our friends at AAFC, we have the capability to compare our current weather data to that of the past! This helps us understand where we are in the grand scheme of things, and assists in the planning and execution of outdoor planting and field trials.
Based on the weather measured from March 1st to May 17th 2021, we are right on track with what was observed in 2006 and 2017 for number of days above 5°C. As we amp it up to base 10 degree days, we see we are tracking similar to 2006, 2009, 2014 and 2018.
Despite a relatively dry winter/early spring, we have managed to catch up to the 10 year average the last few weeks! The red line on the graph tracks the cumulative precipitation of 2021, compared to that captured in previous years. Note that 2020 was tracking relatively similar to what we observed earlier this year. Hopefully things continue to progress on the wetter side of things and ease the stress surrounding hot dry growing seasons!
It is important to note that these values were collected at the Kentville Research Station - microclimates DO exist throughout the valley, as well as across province, so this is merely a guideline! For more site-specific information, consider installing your own weather monitoring station!
Posted by: Talia Plaskett
