Northeast Iowa Crop Conditions

The crops have made good progress over the last 10 days with some very warm temperatures. The first 2 weeks in June were pleasant, with highs in the 60’s and 70’s, but real summer temperatures are in place now, with several days recently with highs in the 90’s. Warm temperatures this time of year are a positive for corn to generate growth during the vegetative stage. As of this week, the Iowa corn crop is rated 83% in good to excellent condition. The concern will be if the recent very warm and dry pattern carries through into mid-July when corn enters the reproductive stage and stress will be detrimental to yield.

The grain markets have been following the weather forecasts. Last week’s hot and dry forecast added some weather risk premium in, while this week’s outlook is a little cooler, taking the premium back out. Given lower than normal grain stocks this roller coaster will continue until the crops are further along and we have a better idea on yield potential.