Northwest Iowa Crop Conditions

We had widespread rainfall last week with some areas receiving 9 inches in just 2 days. Even in the heavy rain
areas, it was amazing to see what little flooding or erosion occurred. We were on the verge of being too dry, so we had a lot of capacity to hold water. The full sized crops this time of year also help slow the water down so that it can be absorbed. This rain is helping to finish out the crops and start building reserve for next year. This week has been dryer which is good, but a little cooler than we would like to see. Ideally we want normal temps and lots of sunshine this time of year.

Corn is just denting now, so that means we are about 20 – 25 days away from full maturity. Corn is still around
30% moisture at maturity. Ideally corn is harvested under 20%, so warm weather is nice in October is helpful for
dry down. Weather can still have an impact on yield and test weight for a few more weeks as the kernels are still
filling out. It looks like we will have a very good corn crop this year.

Soybeans are filling pods and making the last new pods at the top nodes. Our August rainfall has potential to
boost yields. The beans will start turning fall colors in a few weeks. Wet weather is leading to increased White
Mold and Sudden Death Syndrome. Both of these plant diseases can cause premature death and yield loss in
soybeans. The rain is also helping the weeds to grow. Waterhemp is especially difficult to control through August
and September when moisture is available. Overall we expect above average yields in the soybeans as well as
the corn.