According to the latest USDA National Agricultural Statistics Survey Crop Progress Report, nine percent of corn is listed in very poor to poor condition across the country, 27 percent in fair and 64 percent in good to excellent condition. South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota are experiencing drought-like conditions and need some timely rains. In fact, 26 percent of corn in South Dakota and 27 percent in North Dakota is listed in very poor to poor condition. On the soybean side, conditions continue to decline in the same regions, with 29 percent of soybeans in South Dakota and 38 percent in North Dakota in very poor to poor conditions. Nationwide, five percent of soybeans are listed in poor to very poor condition, 24 percent fair and 71 percent in good to excellent condition. Here’s what we’re seeing in some of our regions.
Aaron Stockton, Region 9, Southwest Missouri, Southeast Kansas, Northwest Arkansas and Northeast Oklahoma Here in Region 9, we have been bouncing back and forth between weather extremes. We started our corn planting season warm and sunny and then spent the next six weeks very wet and unseasonably cool. When the weather pattern broke, we went straight to 100-plus degree heat indexes with no rain. During this period, our corn crop was really struggling because of poor root development caused by the early excessive cool, wet conditions. Our first soybean crop went in during this period. Growers started planting in the mud and finished in the dust, if at all. We have, just in the last few days, had an area-wide system come through that revived our soil moisture as well as our outlooks and attitudes. Wheat harvest is in full swing, and this rain will provide the much-needed moisture to support our double crop soybeans as well as everything prior. This time of year, our attitudes tend to follow the weather patterns, and right now we’re grateful and riding high!
Brett Johnson, Region 6 RSA, East Central and Southeast Iowa
A majority of Region 6 has been the garden spot compared to the rest of Iowa, but it has still faced some challenges. Most of us got the crop in on time, but throughout planting, the further south and east in Iowa you are, the more rainfall you have probably received. With that said, we have areas in the northwest portion of Region 6 that, within a week of tasseling the southeast portion, has had up to 20 inches or more rain, many more acres of replant and, in some cases, hail on knee-high corn. As a whole, corn is looking good nearing tassel stage within the next week to 10 days, and most soybeans are beginning to flower. In summary, Region 6 is set up for a good crop as long we receive ample rain through pollination.
Kevin Krabel, Region 13, East Central, South Central and Southwestern Illinois
With the exception of double crop soybeans that are being planted now here in Region 13, a majority of the crops got planted in very good conditions. For the most part, everything is looking really good so far. We had some heavy rains in the central and southern portions of Region 13 along with some heavy winds that did cause some goose necking to occur in some corn fields. However, many of those fields recovered pretty quickly and, other than being tougher to harvest in the fall, should be okay. Recently, it has rained almost every day in Region 13, and at my house, we have seen 5.25” of rain since last Friday.
Brian Burnell, Region 16 RSA, Northern Indiana
The southern half of Region 16 looks to be a garden spot this year so far. Early-planted corn and soybeans are thriving from the consistent rains and heat. The northern half of the region has some more pockets of wetter areas that have had their struggles and lead to some replant. Overall, Region 16 looks to be on pace for above average yields. Some tassels have been spotted in early-planted corn. Folks cutting wheat are reporting great yields, and market conditions should be encouraging for double crop beans to get in as soon as possible.
Ted Olson, Region 19 RSA, Central Illinois
Heavy rains have subsided with areas getting seven to 10 inches in a week’s time. Crops look excellent where the water hasn’t damaged them. Wheat harvest is wrapping up and had very good yields this year.
For more crop progress tips or information related to Stine, please contact your local Stine sales rep.