Indiana Grain Company, LLC

Posted: 06/28/10

By: tomgrisafi

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said in its weekly crop report that the heavy rains of last weekend, which exceeded ten inches in northwest Iowa, are “taking a toll” on Iowa’s crops.

The USDA said that 66 percent of Iowa’s soybean crop is rated good to excellent, down from 72 percent last week. The report said 72 percent of the corn crop is rated good to excellent, down from 76 percent last week.

Soybeans are more vulnerable because they are planted later. Corn enjoyed an excellent early planting season in late March and early April.

The USDA said Monday “the consistent showers have taken a toll on crops throughout the state. Thursday and Friday were much needed dry days and helped maintain crop conditions. Unfortunately, the break from rain was short lived. Heavy rains over the weekend contributed to more flooding and ponding. This surplus of water is causing crop condition and growth to vary dramatically. Some fields have areas completely drowned out by standing water and sections turning yellow with stunted growth; meanwhile portions on high ground which drain well are thriving. Pastures are also suffering and becoming very muddy as creeks and rivers overflow.”

Some tasseling is reported in the earliest planted corn. But concerns are rising about the loss of nitrogen through the wet soil.

Source: DesMoinesRegister.com