Counties of: Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Lyon, O’Brien, Osceola, Plymouth, Sioux
Most of this region finally received beneficial rainfall over the weekend. The northern tier of counties along the Minnesota border had the most rain with 2” or more in some places, but parts of Cherokee, Plymouth, and Woodbury counties were disappointed receiving only a tenth or two. A fairly large part of NW Iowa got about a half inch. This rain was needed badly for both corn and soybeans. Unfortunately, it was not enough to relieve the deficit on most farms. The long-range forecast shows average to above average temperatures with below average rainfall.
Corn pollinated in mid to late July and is now on to the blister or milk stage. I believe corn yields have already been reduced by the drought in this region as a whole, but I also think most farms still have potential for a good crop. Rainfall amounts, soil quality, and fertility will make a big difference again this year. Farms with lighter soils will not perform well. Weather over the next three weeks will impact the size and weight of kernels. Stress during this time can cause kernels to abort, tip back ears, shallow kernels, and poor test weight. Cooler temperatures (especially at night) would be beneficial at this stage.
Soybeans also have good yield potential generally, but they need favorable weather through August. Soybeans are making pods now. They would greatly benefit from additional rainfall this month.
Please click on the links on the right to view the past pdf’s of our Northwest Crop Conditions reports.
1705 N Lake Ave
Storm Lake, IA 50588
Real Estate Licensed in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota.
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