Crop Conditions

The weeks rainfall has given the crops more breathing room. The region received anywhere from one inch to almost six inches over Labor Day weekend and into this week. Most soil conditions will be wet, but conditions will vary throughout the region. With temperatures remaining near average and potentially beginning to cool, crops should remain only slightly ahead of schedule. Some rain may continue into next week, but enough sun and warmth over the weekend should help fuel crop development. Any continued rains may also delay those who are looking to harvest for sileage or early planted crops.

Corn is halfway through the milk line stage for most plants, with some fields starting to reach full dent and approaching black layer (physiological maturity) in the coming weeks. August’s weather created a variety of conditions for corn, depending on soil conditions and precipitation in different areas. The wetter conditions this week may delay the complete yellowing of the corn plant, which we are beginning to see. Weather next week should help keep the corn plant from being stressed and may reduce loss of kernel weight.

Yield estimates will continue to vary field to field. Tip-back on the ears has fully set in for some fields. Silage harvest has started for many, and yields are still looking average to slightly above average, even with the stress we saw in July and parts of August. The rainfall received this week should aid in the crop’s final yield potential.

Soybeans are starting to reach maturity and change color across the region. August rains put them in a great position to fill pods throughout the plant. The rainfall received this week should aid in developing the pods near the top of the plant. Yield estimates for soybeans are still difficult to determine, but they are looking average to even slightly above average.

The grain markets have continued to stay strong. Demand has risen due to several factors, including continued “fund money” flowing into commodities, complications in the Black Sea, the war in Iran, ongoing tariff issues, and concerns about El Niño for the upcoming South American growing season. With all these factors in play, there is increased volatility in the markets.