Northwest Iowa Crop Conditions

This has been the most challenging planting season since 2019, but everything was generally able to get finished before the final crop insurance planting date last week (June 15 for soybeans). Some poorly drained fields or parts of fields, especially in the northern part of this region, still need to be planted or replanted because of persistently wet soil conditions. The entire region had an inch or more of rain early this morning, and the forecast for the rest of the week is also rainy. The longer-range forecast for late June is warmer than average with an above-average chance of rain. Heavy rain and flooding are a concern in the near term, but the longer term threat may be very hot temperatures going into corn pollination, which can limit yield even with enough soil moisture.

Corn in this region is in a wide range of sizes and conditions currently. The earlier planted corn in well-drained soil looks very good and is ahead of schedule in growth. This corn has hit the rapid growth stage of the season. But in the trouble spots that were too wet before and after planting the corn is struggling to develop a healthy root system. The plant sizes and colors in those areas are very uneven. There are also issues with nitrogen losses from leaching and denitrification both caused by excess soil water. That factor may be more apparent later this summer. The best crops in this region are on rolling loess soils with good natural drainage or the well-tiled farms. In both cases the excess water can drain away freely. Farms with good drainage have a big advantage this year.

The soybeans also vary in size depending on the planting date (which was a wide range this year). It looks like most of the late planted beans emerged ok, but there are still many wet spots to replant. Overall, most beans have an acceptable stand by now with good yield potential. The earlier planted soybeans are now 4 to 6 inches, and the later planted soybeans are still emerging.