By Andi Anderson
Iowa farmers experienced a hot and dry week ending September 15, 2024, which allowed for 6.7 days of suitable fieldwork, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.
These conditions provided an excellent opportunity for field activities, including chopping corn silage and beginning the harvest of both corn and soybeans.
Topsoil moisture conditions varied, with 6 percent rated very short, 38 percent short, 55 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend, with 6 percent very short, 32 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.
Corn development progressed as 85 percent of the crop reached the dent stage, though this is 8 days behind last year and 2 days behind the five-year average. Corn maturity reached 41 percent, 4 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the average.
The corn harvest for grain officially began, with 2 percent of the crop harvested. Corn condition remains strong, with 77 percent of the crop rated as good to excellent.
Soybean development also showed solid progress. Seventy-two percent of soybeans had turned color, trailing last year by 3 days but still 2 days ahead of the five-year average. Soybeans dropping leaves reached 31 percent, again 3 days behind last year.
The soybean harvest began this week, with 1 percent of the crop harvested, and 77 percent of soybeans rated as good to excellent.
Iowa’s third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 96 percent, which is 9 days behind last year but still 1 week ahead of the five-year average. However, pasture conditions took a hit from the dry weather, dropping 11 percentage points to 52 percent rated as good to excellent.
Despite the challenges posed by dry conditions, Iowa farmers have made solid progress in harvesting their crops, with both corn and soybeans showing positive development. The state remains on track to continue a productive harvest season as weather conditions allow.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dmaroscar
Categories: Iowa, Harvesting