By Andi Anderson
During the week ending June 22, 2025, Iowa farmers experienced limited time in the fields due to scattered rainfall. On average, farmers had only 4.3 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
Despite this, crop growth remained steady thanks to above-average temperatures across the state.
Field activities included hay cutting and spraying. The state’s topsoil moisture was rated 3% very short, 16% short, 73% adequate, and 8% surplus. Subsoil moisture rated 6% very short, 21% short, 65% adequate, and 8% surplus.
Almost all corn has now emerged across Iowa, with some areas already reporting early signs of silking. Corn condition was reported as 1% very poor, 2% poor, 14% fair, 62% good, and 21% excellent—indicating strong overall health.
Nearly all soybean crops have also emerged, and 13% of the crop has begun blooming. This is five days ahead of last year and the five-year average. Soybean conditions were rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 19% fair, 61% good, and 16% excellent.
Iowa’s oat crop is progressing with 81% headed and 27% turning color. Oat conditions remained strong, with 0% very poor, 2% poor, 13% fair, 67% good, and 18% excellent.
The first cutting of alfalfa hay is 94% complete, and the second cutting is 24% finished. Hay condition is strong, with 80% rated good to excellent. Pasture conditions also remain healthy at 72% rated good to excellent.
Some heat stress was noted in livestock, but overall, Iowa agriculture continues to thrive as summer progresses.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Iowa, Weather