Iowa farmers saw limited time in the fields last week, with just under four days suitable for fieldwork due to wet conditions and storm damage. According to the latest USDA Crop Progress and Condition Report, July will likely go down as Iowa’s second wettest on record, averaging more than nine inches of rain statewide.
The derecho that moved through northern and eastern Iowa caused scattered damage to crops, buildings, and trees. Some low-lying fields are also feeling the impact of saturated soils.
As of Sunday, 92% of corn had silked, 53% reached dough stage, and 9% was dented. Corn condition remains strong, with 85% rated good to excellent. Soybeans are 89% blooming, 65% setting pods, and 80% in good to excellent condition. The second cutting of alfalfa is nearly complete, and 39% of the third cutting is done.
Pastures are holding up well, though some grazing acres are flooded in North Central Iowa.
View the full press release from the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship here.
