By Andi Anderson
Warm September weather pushed Iowa crops toward maturity and allowed the first round of harvest, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service for the week ending September 21, 2025. Farmers had 4.9 days suitable for fieldwork as wet conditions slowed activity in some areas.
Topsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 18 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture measured 2 percent very short, 17 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus, indicating mostly favorable soil conditions for late-season growth.
Corn development moved quickly, with 95 percent dented or beyond and 66 percent fully matured. Both figures are ahead of last year and the five-year average. Harvest of corn for grain has started, with 8 percent complete.
Crop ratings show corn condition holding steady at 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 19 percent excellent.
Soybeans also progressed rapidly. Nearly 89 percent of fields have colored, and 62 percent of plants are dropping leaves, running slightly ahead of last year and the five-year average. Soybean condition remains strong, rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 17 percent excellent.
Pastures continue to benefit from adequate moisture, with 60 percent rated good to excellent, supporting livestock feed needs as fall approaches.
Despite scattered wet areas limiting some fieldwork, Iowa farmers are seeing healthy late-season crops and an early start to harvest. With warm temperatures continuing, producers are expected to make steady progress in bringing in both corn and soybeans over the coming weeks.
Photo Credit: harvesting-istock-pixeldigits
Categories: Iowa, Harvesting, Weather