Southwest Iowa Crop Conditions

USDA’s weekly crop progress rating has a good percentage of west-central Iowa’s corn and soybeans rated Good to Excellent; however, these ratings do not pass judgement on the growth stage as compared to normal. Despite very high ratings, most of our crops are behind normal growth stage having not yet caught up from the cold in May. This is not a concern yet. Heat this week will help push roots down for moisture (a plus) and will help vegetation growth. Areas of lighter soil may start showing drought / heat stress during hot afternoons.

Crop prices continue to hold up pretty well. Early to mid-June is the time of highest crop prices, on average. Many years it does not provide the highest price, but does normally provide some very solid pricing opportunities.

Land values continue to be very strong. The market continues to absorb a higher than normal amount of land for sale. Investors remain actively involved in many purchases. Farmers continue to add land, especially for those parcels which have locational value for their operations. It is important to note that not all farmers are interested in purchasing land, and many not at today’s higher levels.