Northeast Iowa Crop Conditions

We have had a much needed week of warm, dry weather. Most farm operators are able to put their planters away, as the last day of soybean planting and corn re-planting finished last week. Crops have progressed well with the warmer conditions. Herbicide application in the corn is in full swing this week as weeds have started to come on strong.

The grain markets have stayed strong. Excellent demand underpins the markets for both crops, along with reduced South American production. In the background are concerns about possible hot, dry conditions later this summer as we transition to the La Nina weather phase. Forecasts at 90+ degrees later this week may be our first taste of this transition. However, early crop conditions reports throughout the cornbelt are good, and there are very few areas that are dry at this time.