Iowa AG Crop Update

Iowa farmers had just over four days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending June 22nd, thanks to scattered showers and storms—some bringing heavy rain. Work focused on hay cutting and spraying.

Despite the wet weather in spots, topsoil moisture remains mostly adequate, with 3 percent rated very short and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil conditions are similar, with 6 percent very short and 8 percent surplus.

Nearly all of Iowa’s corn has now emerged, and early reports show a few fields beginning to silk. The corn crop is holding steady, with 83 percent rated good to excellent.

Soybeans are also off to a strong start—nearly all have emerged, and 13 percent are blooming, running five days ahead of normal. About 77 percent of soybeans are rated good to excellent.

Oats are 81 percent headed and 27 percent have started to turn color. Most of the crop—85 percent—is in fair to excellent shape.

Meanwhile, 94 percent of the first cutting of alfalfa hay is complete, and the second cutting has reached 24 percent. Hay and pasture conditions are also favorable, though livestock stress from heat has been reported in some areas.