Crop Conditions

Thunderstorms this morning had strong winds which tipped over corn in some places. I expect most of that corn will recover. Rainfall in this region has been highly variable over the past couple weeks while temperatures have increased above average. The dry pockets are showing crop stress needing rain, but most of the region has had enough rain throughout July. The long rage forecasts call for average temps with slightly above average chances for rainfall. Overall, weather in the second half of the summer is looking favorable for finishing the crops.

Corn conditions are generally good in the south half of this region, but they are somewhat poor to variable in the northern two tiers of counties. Farms with poor drainage are especially variable. Corn pollination is nearly complete except for the late planted or replanted corn. Many corn fields are being treated with a fungicide for leaf diseases which are usually an issue during prolonged wet, humid conditions.

Soybeans are just starting the most important period for determining yield. They are now blooming and making pods at the same time. The recent rainfall should be beneficial for the beans. By mid-August soybeans will shift energy more to filling pods, so another rain or two next month would help. Many fields are getting sprayed with a fungicide and insecticide this week.