By Andi Anderson
Iowa farmers made strong progress during the week ending June 1, 2025, thanks to dry weather and scattered showers. According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, fieldwork was possible for an average of 5.4 days, supporting key activities like planting, spraying, and hay cutting.
Topsoil moisture was rated 70% adequate, while subsoil moisture followed closely at 65%. Only a small percentage of fields were reported as very short or surplus in moisture.
Corn planting has nearly wrapped up, reaching 97%. Corn emergence stood at 87%, which is six days ahead of last year and one day ahead of the five-year average. Corn condition was also strong, with 84% rated good to excellent.
Soybeans were also advancing quickly, with 96% of the crop planted and 79% emerged. This puts soybean emergence ten days ahead of last year and four days ahead of the average. Soybean condition was reported at 81% good to excellent.
The oat crop is performing well, with 95% emerged and 41% headed. This stage of development is two days ahead of last year and one full week ahead of normal. Oats received a high condition rating of 85% good to excellent.
First cutting of alfalfa hay was also ahead, with 61% completed—six days ahead of both last year and the average. Hay condition was strong, with 83% rated good to excellent. Pastures followed suit, with 73% in good to excellent condition.
Overall, Iowa farmers are seeing a productive start to the season, with favorable weather supporting timely planting and healthy crop development across the state.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Weather