By Andi Anderson
Iowa farmers experienced 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending July 28, 2024, thanks to scattered rainfall, as reported by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.
Key field activities included harvesting oats for grain, cutting and baling hay, and applying fungicides to crops.
Topsoil moisture levels were rated as 1 percent very short, 12 percent short, 80 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions were similarly favorable, with 2 percent very short, 11 percent short, 80 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. These moisture levels are essential for healthy crop development.
Corn silking reached 85 percent, which is 2 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the five-year average. Additionally, 34 percent of the corn crop has reached the dough stage or beyond, 1 day ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of the average.
Two percent of the corn crop has reached the dent stage, and the overall corn condition was rated 77 percent good to excellent.
In terms of soybeans, 83 percent were blooming, 4 days behind last year but 1 day ahead of normal. Soybeans setting pods reached 43 percent, which is 2 days behind last year.
The condition of the soybean crop was rated 76 percent good to excellent, reflecting a generally healthy outlook.
Oat crops also showed significant progress, with 96 percent turning color or beyond. The oat harvest for grain reached 67 percent complete, 6 days ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of the five-year average.
The second cutting of alfalfa hay reached 87 percent complete, 4 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the five-year average. The third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 16 percent, 6 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the five-year average.
The condition of hay was rated 78 percent good to excellent, while pasture conditions were rated 71 percent good to excellent. Despite the overall positive progress, some livestock experienced heat stress.
Overall, Iowa's crop progress remains steady, supported by favorable weather conditions and sufficient fieldwork days. Farmers continue to monitor and manage their fields effectively, anticipating a successful harvest season ahead.
This positive outlook is encouraging for the state's agricultural community as they navigate the growing season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-awakr10
Categories: Iowa, Weather