By Andi Anderson
Iowa farmers enjoyed 6.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 18, 2025. Warm temperatures and little rainfall allowed for rapid planting of corn and soybeans across the state. However, dry soil conditions led to some early crop emergence issues and isolated replanting.
Topsoil moisture conditions were rated 8 percent very short, 37 percent short, 53 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture followed similar trends, with 6 percent very short, 34 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus.
Corn planting reached 91 percent, which is 12 days ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of the five-year average. Corn emergence reached 58 percent, running 5 days ahead of last year and 3 days ahead of average.
Soybean planting advanced quickly to 84 percent, putting it more than two weeks ahead of last year and a week ahead of the five-year average. Soybean emergence reached 42 percent, 8 days ahead of last year and 6 days ahead of normal.
The state’s oat crop also saw solid progress. About 86 percent of oats have emerged, and 15 percent have headed. Oat condition was strong, with 71 percent rated good and 15 percent excellent.
Hay production is underway, with 23 percent of alfalfa’s first cutting complete. Hay condition was rated 78 percent good to excellent. Pasture conditions also held firm, with 63 percent rated good to excellent.
There were no livestock concerns reported. Despite some moisture shortages, Iowa’s crops are progressing well thanks to timely planting and favorable temperatures. Farmers are keeping an eye on rainfall needs as the season continues.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: Iowa, Weather