• Current conditions feature stable, pleasant weather
• A localized rain event occurred the previous night (May 7th) across central Iowa, with amounts around 0.21 inches in some areas
• Weather pattern is currently dictated by an "Omega block" high pressure system creating stable air
• Forecast shows temperatures warming into the 80s with relatively dry conditions
• 6-10 and 8-14 day outlooks indicate:
  • Above normal temperatures for Iowa, though this pattern is moving eastward
  • Above normal precipitation chances in the coming weeks
  • Western US expected to have below normal temperatures

• On May 8, 1964, Iowa experienced very strong winds (60-75 mph, up to 85 mph in Des Moines)
• This created widespread dust storms described as the worst since the 1930s

• A temperature gradient between western and eastern US suggests potential for a more active storm track
• Possible thunderstorm conditions developing May 15-21
• Recent precipitation has been below normal over the past week
• Temperature gradient with southern Iowa cooler than normal and northern Iowa warmer than normal

• Dan discussed preparing cut flowers for Mother's Day sales
• Highlighted benefits of overwintering certain flowers in low tunnels:
  • Earlier blooming than spring-planted flowers
  • Longer stems on cool-weather flowers
  • Currently blooming: Iceland poppy, bachelor's button
  • Nearly ready: foxglove
  • Other successful overwintered varieties: dianthus, campanula, larkspur, delphinium, Nigella, bupleurum, bells of Ireland
• Shared an alternative low tunnel design using carabiners, hose clamps, and bungee cords
• Addressed a flower disease issue: blue mold affecting tulips
  • Disease infects bulbs during harvest
  • Shows variety-specific impacts
  • Management includes identifying infected bulbs before planting

Episode Summary generated by Claude.ai