Iowans grappled with high temperatures last week, with some areas recording significant rainfall, hail, and high winds, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report. For the week ending June 22, farmers had an average of 4.3 days suitable for fieldwork, which consisted primarily of cutting hay and spraying. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says, “Last week’s mix of hot temperatures, high humidity, and blustery winds really made it feel like summer. Some areas across north-central Iowa received several inches of rain, with other locations receiving uninvited hail and high winds. The warmer temperatures and increased chances for rain are likely to continue through the end of the month.” Nearly all corn and soybean crops have emerged, with some limited reports of corn silking. Soybeans blooming reached 13 percent, five days ahead of last year and the five-year average. Corn conditions rated 83 percent good to excellent, while soybeans rated 77 percent good to excellent. As for moisture conditions, topsoil measured 19 percent short to very short, 73 percent adequate, and eight percent surplus. Subsoil came in at 27 percent short to very short, 65 percent adequate, and eight percent surplus. Find the full report online at www.nass.usda.gov.
