Welcome rainfall improves crop conditions

The southern third of Iowa finally received some much-needed rain, which reduced the days suitable for fieldwork to 5.1 during the week ending July 2, 2023, according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service Crop Progress and Condition Report. Field activities included cutting hay and spraying crops. Some reports were received of farmers getting equipment ready to start the oat harvest soon.

“This configuration, called a ‘Ring of Fire,’ allowed waves of storms to propagate along the northern boundary of a thermal ridge situated south of Iowa,” said State Climatologist Justin Glisan in the report. “The southern one-third of the state reported above-average rainfall with drier conditions north … The statewide weekly average precipitation was 1.15 inches, while the normal is 1.10 inches.”

Topsoil moisture condition rated 17 percent very short, 38 percent short, 44 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 21 percent very short, 40 percent short, 38 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus.

Reports of corn starting to silk were received, hitting 4 percent this week. Corn condition rating improved to 61 percent good to excellent.

Twenty-five percent of soybeans were blooming, five days ahead of last year and two days ahead of the five-year average. There were reports of soybeans starting to set pods. Soybean condition rose to 53 percent good to excellent.

Forty-three percent oats were turning color, one week ahead of last year and five days ahead of normal. Oat condition increased to 50 percent good to excellent.

The State’s second cutting of alfalfa hay reached 35 percent complete, eight days ahead of last year and six days ahead of the average. Hay condition improved slightly to 33 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 24 percent good to excellent. Livestock producers continued to supplement with hay as pasture conditions remained comparable to the previous week.