Northwest Iowa Crop Conditions

Growing conditions across western Iowa and adjoining parts of South Dakota have been nearly ideal in recent weeks, thanks to timely rainfall, sunshine, and warm temperatures. This has been a welcome change after the cool, dry weather in early May. Most of the region remains below average on soil moisture, but conditions are trending better. The latest long-range outlook from the National Weather Service calls for slightly above-average chances of rainfall through the end of June, along with warmer-than-average temperatures. If that forecast verifies, it would be perfect for crop development. From a crop production standpoint, warm temperatures during May and June followed by cooler than average temps in July and August would be ideal.

Corn growth and development is progressing on schedule, with stands ranging from acceptable to excellent. Early stand problems were related to crusted soils, dry soil, and cool temperatures during emergence. The earliest planted corn is now over a foot tall and is growing rapidly. Many fields received post-emergence herbicide applications this week. Even though there are some farms with less than ideal stands or somewhat low populations, overall, the crop is off to a strong start.

Soybeans growth always seems slow this time of year, but they are looking better every week. Most are only around 4 inches tall at this stage. The biggest stand issue on beans was the dry topsoil last month causing uneven emergence, but there’s been enough rainfall over the last couple of weeks to cure those issues. the crop is making good progress as we move into the main growing season.