Northwest Iowa Crop Conditions

Weather in August has been near normal so far. Rainfall over the past few weeks has been inconsistent at best.
Some areas are getting dry especially in light soils. Recently we’ve had days with 90 degree temperatures which
adds crop stress.

The corn crop looks fairly good from the road, but if you look closer it’s far from perfect. Most corn is in the milk stage or early dough stage. I’ve heard some corn has already started to dent, so it’s progressing very quickly.We prefer if corn slows down its progress at this stage of the season. A longer grain fill period equals better kernel length and test weight. The heat will speed up this process which will reduce yields. We are finding inconsistent ear size because of the uneven emergence and warm pollination season. Yield estimates are
especially difficult this year. I think we are looking at an average to slightly below average corn crop in this region.

Soybeans look good. We are not having as much trouble with weeds this year compared to last year. The
soybeans have the potential for high yields, but it’s too early to call. Good rainfall this month is important. We are finding some aphids but not consistent. Some fields will be sprayed over the next two weeks.
Good export sales have helped the bean prices recently, but corn prices continue to struggle. Crop conditions
nationwide continue to be very good according to the USDA.