Southwest Iowa Crop Conditions

Corn is in the grain fill stage, trying to keep and fill out the kernels that were pollinated in July. Its success will depend on luck in catching rain showers, water-holding capacity of the soil, and drought-hardiness of the hybrid. For the most part, crops look better than could be expected for the shortage of moisture. Beans are behind normal in pod development. Several rains of an inch or more would do wonders at this stage for the beans. Most fungicide/insecticide applications have been completed.

Grain markets are exhibiting normal behavior for late summer. Trying to hold steady with some choppiness, no real direction either up or down at this time. Highs were posted in May and June, which is pretty typical. We’re now entering the stage of season where crop tours and yield estimates from large commodity firms start catching a lot of attention.

Lots of activity for land sales in the next 30 days. High sales volume will likely continue to December. Sale results the past 30 days have been within the ranges established during the 2nd quarter.

Cash rent negotiating season is also in the near future. If you don’t arrive at a new agreement by end of August, a formal lease termination should be sent or signed. Legally, the existing terms roll frward unless formally terminated or re-negotiated by September 1. Once terminated, you have no deadline to agree upon new terms; however, agreed upon by end of the calendar year.