Crop Conditions

Harvest has been running at full speed for nearly three weeks, with the exception of a rain event on October 9 that unfortunately included hail damage to some soybean fields. Overall, harvest is running about one to two weeks behind schedule, especially compared to the past couple of years when we were ahead of schedule. The extended forecast calls for average to above-average temperatures, along with slightly higher-than-normal chances of rain over the next two weeks.

Soybean harvest is about 80% complete. Yields have been variable again this year, depending on soil quality and rainfall, but overall, soybean yields have been better than expected. Most farms with heavier soils have been producing 65 to 75 bushels per acre. The significant rainfall late in the growing season made a big difference.

Corn harvest is picking up speed this week. Moisture levels are a little higher than they have been the past couple of years, but still reasonable, with most corn coming in between 17% and 19% moisture. In recent years, corn has gotten too dry causing harvest losses, so the higher moisture levels this year are actually a positive in many ways. One concern is the potential for stalk weakness and lodging in fields that were stressed by dry conditions earlier in the season. So far, most corn has held up well.

Corn yields appear to be more variable than soybean yields this year, and most of the yield data is yet to come in. I think the inconsistent rainfall in early July made a big difference. Areas that received timely rainfall, high-quality soils, and above average fertility are producing some very impressive yields, well above average. Overall, the corn crop is shaping up to be a little better than expected.