Northwest Iowa Crop Conditions

Growing conditions have been generally favorable in recent weeks, with a beneficial mix of rainfall, sunshine, and seasonal temperatures. Although, this area remains slightly behind on both rainfall and growing degree units (GDUs). This area is making progress toward rebuilding soil moisture, but the possibility of a worsening drought this summer is still a concern.

The extended forecast is trending cooler, with increased chances for rainfall. While additional rain is welcome, sustained below-average temperatures in June is not ideal, it would slow crop development. Ideally, we’d like warmer-than-average temperatures in May and June, followed by cooler than average July and August to support grain fill and top yield.

Most corn fields have good to very good stands. The first planted corn is over a foot tall and growing fast. Many farms were sprayed with post-emerge herbicides recently. There are still occasional issues with uneven plant stands or low population, but overall, the corn is off to a really good start in this region.

Soybeans always seem frustratingly slow to get going and this year is no exception. Most are only around 4 inches tall at this stage. Stand issues have been more common in beans this season compared to corn, especially in no-till fields planted in late April following rainfall. The hot and dry conditions during the first 10 days of May caused rapid topsoil drying, which dried the topsoil too quickly before the beans could emerge. Despite this, most fields did finally reach an acceptable plant stand and should retain full yield potential.