Northwest Iowa Crop Conditions

Northwest Iowa planting was finished on most farms over a week ago. This is ahead of schedule compared to average but about the same as last year’s fast pace. Also similar to last year, May temperatures are running well below average so far. Conditions have been cool and too dry, not ideal for seedling growth. Iowa (and the upper Midwest) was largely too dry over the past 30 days. On average this area typically get about 3 inches of rain from mid-April to mid-May (ideal planting window), but this year it’s been closer to 1 inch or less. This dry spell was very helpful to get crops planted, but we don’t want to see it extend into summer. Soil moisture reserves are currently well below average. The two week outlook is much warmer with above average rainfall chances, so we are hopeful of that.

The corn planted 10 days ago or more has mostly emerged. The cool, dry weather caused some variability in the stand, but so far most fields look to be in good shape. If we get the warmup and rainfall forecast, corn in this area will be off to a really good start.

There are a few soybeans in the area yet to plant, they should be soon. The beans have also been a little slow to emerge. We were worried about seed sitting in dry soil, but I believe most had just enough moisture and rainfall to germinate successfully.