Crop Conditions

Planting conditions were favorable SE of Storm Lake. Planting was generally complete by the second full week of May with much progress occurring from mid to late April. Crops that were planted around April 20th to April 23rd may have struggled to emerge from the soil due to soil crusting. Soil crusting occurs when heavy rain is received after planting followed by warm temperatures which results in the upper layer of soil hardening to the point where the plants struggle to break the surface and emerge. Final stand counts can be impacted by this with some severe cases resulting with re-planting to be necessary. The most severe cases were found SW or NW of Storm Lake this spring.

Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to increase with daytime highs in the low to mid-80s most days next week. There is also a good chance of rainfall forecasted for tomorrow, May 22nd.