Southeast Iowa Crop Conditions

The month of June brought overall average temperatures and below average amounts of rainfall SE of Storm Lake. The heat helped advance crop development. In recent weeks, we have watched drought conditions begin to creep in from areas northwest of Storm Lake. During this time it was common sight to see crop stress during much of the day. The recent rainfall has been timely and more is forecasted this week. Last year was a reminder that dry conditions in June aid in deep root development in corn. Improved root development not only helps water intake but also nutrient intake. This will be a benefit for the corn crop moving further into the summer months.

We look for corn to begin reproductive stages of development beginning mid-July. The extended 8 to 14 day weather outlook the temperatures are forecasted to be near normal with precipitation below normal. These conditions should be decent for corn pollination. Additional precipitation would be a benefit.