As was pointed out in the June 24 issue of Weather, Crops, and Markets, the 1922 crop is much larger than that of last year and sales were somewhat disappointing this spring. These factors along with others have tended to cause dealers to take a passive interest in the crop and refrain from making any but nominal bids for seed held by growers.
MARKET NOT YET MADE.
The market had not become established by July 25, although prices for country-run seed ranging from 75¢ to $1.25 per 100 lbs. were being offered occasionally to growers in the Kentucky, Ohio, and Missouri districts. Thrashing had not progressed sufficiently in Virginia for buyers to become interested in the seed that was harvested in that State.
The quality of the 1922 crop in practically all districts is considered to be better than last year. The carryover of old seed by growers, particularly in the Ohio and Virginia districts, seems to be somewhat larger than usual. No orchard grass seed was permitted entry under the seed importation act during June and July.
Meadow Fescue Seed Prices Decline During Past Two Weeks.
A normal movement of the 1922 crop of meadow fescue seed has occurred since thrashing began about June 30, and it is estimated that approximately 55% of the crop has already been sold by growers. In the opinion of country buyers and others this year’s crop of recleaned seed will be about twice as large as that of last year.
The quality is considered to be much better not only because of favorable weather during the growing season and at harvest time but also because growers exercised more care in the selection of their seed for sowing. During recent years the shrinkage in recleaning the crop has been unusually heavy, resulting in considerable loss to the growers.
Prices to growers declined 2¢ or 3¢ during the two weeks prior to July 25. Only about 4¢ per lb. for recleaned seed was being paid on that date, and there were not many buyers even at that price.