Southeast Iowa Crop Conditions

Corn and soybean harvest happened quickly once again this fall.  Overall, soybean yields were good or slightly above average.  There were pockets that touched new production records but excessive rainfall during the growing season lowered field averages especially where soil struggled to drain.  We also saw the moisture percentage drop quickly allowing producers only a very small window to harvest at the optimum moisture percentage.

The corn harvest window was wide due to heavy disease pressure, most notably Southern Rust, pushing corn along faster than normal.  Producers who did not spray their corn with fungicide, corn harvest may have started in mid-September with disappointing results obtained.  Corn that was sprayed with fungicide was able to senescence more naturally, and yields were average to above average.  Generally, the corn harvest was completed by mid-October.

Fall weather was mild in temperature and precipitation which allowed for much field work to be completed.

This year will be remembered for frequent rain events throughout much of the growing season.  Baling good quality hay during June and July was difficult due to this.  Rainfall timing was beneficial for growing corn and soybeans but became excessive at times due to the overall amount received.  The wet conditions and strong winds from the south created a perfect environment for Southern Rust to thrive during the grain-fill stages of corn production.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season for you and your families.