The ideal planting period for both crops has passed, and corn in particular is at risk of yield losses due to further delays. (Photo by Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)
Iowa farmers had an average of about two days available for field work last week due to severe weather that brought damaging winds, nearly 30 tornadoes and three times as much precipitation, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“Our hearts go out to all Iowans and communities affected by the recent bouts of devastating severe weather,” said Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. He added: “Planting is progressing as conditions allow, but many farmers continue to experience delays.”
About 88% of the state’s corn crop was planted as of Sunday, the USDA reported. About 73% of soybeans had been planted, which is 10 days behind last year’s progress and about three days slower than the five-year average.
The ideal planting period for both crops has passed, and corn in particular is at risk of yield losses due to further delays. About 73% of corn plants emerging from the ground are rated as good or excellent. Part of the harvest was affected by the storm.
Rainfall totals exceeded 6 inches in some parts of the state last week, with a high of 8.63 in Tama County, according to state climatologist Justin Glisan. The statewide average was 3.41 inches – just over triple what is normal.
Weeks of wet weather have largely wiped out the dry field conditions that threatened crop production in recent years. About 97% of the state’s fields have adequate or excess moisture, the USDA reported. That is an increase compared to 50% a year ago.
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