Iowa Crop Planting Slows as Rains Persist Across State

By Andi Anderson

Iowa farmers faced continued challenges during the week ending May 4, 2025, as rainfall limited field access across many parts of the state. According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, only 3.2 days were suitable for fieldwork last week.

Despite the weather, planting made progress. Corn planting reached 49%, which is 3 days ahead of last year’s pace, though 2 days behind the five-year average. Corn emergence stood at 10%, putting it 2 days ahead of last year and 3 days ahead of the average.

Soybean planting also moved forward, with 38% of the crop planted. That is one week ahead of last year and 2 days ahead of the five-year average. Soybean emergence reached 5%, showing early signs of healthy crop development.

Oat seeding is nearly complete, with 91% of the expected acreage planted. About 58% of oats have emerged, which is 4 days behind last year but still 3 days ahead of the five-year norm.

This week marked the first oat condition report of the season, with 66% of the crop rated good and 13% excellent. Only 1% was rated very poor and 2% poor.

Soil moisture conditions remain mostly favorable. Topsoil moisture was rated 3% very short, 9% short, 76% adequate, and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture followed closely with 4% very short, 18% short, 71% adequate, and 7% surplus.

Pasture conditions remain strong, with 60% rated good to excellent, supporting healthy livestock. No issues were reported among livestock producers.

Although weather continues to cause delays, Iowa farmers are steadily pushing forward with spring planting and early crop growth. Warmer and drier conditions ahead may help increase field activity.

Photo Credit: usda