Northwest Iowa crops are progressing steadily, with soybeans leading the charge and overall crop conditions remaining favorable, according to the USDA’s latest Crop Progress and Condition report released July 7.
As of July 6, corn silking in the Northwest District reached 13%, slightly behind the statewide average of 15%. However, corn conditions remain robust, with 86% of the crop rated good to excellent.
Soybeans are showing strong development, with 42% of the crop blooming—well ahead of the state average of 36%. Six percent of soybeans have begun setting pods. Crop condition is also favorable, with 79% rated good to excellent.
Oat progress is nearing completion, with 96% of the crop headed and 32% coloring. Harvest has just begun, with 2% of oats harvested for grain. Oat conditions are rated 88% good to excellent.
Alfalfa hay’s second cutting is 50% complete in the region, and hay and pasture conditions remain strong, with 84% and 80% rated good to excellent, respectively.
Farmers had 4.7 days suitable for fieldwork last week. Soil moisture levels are favorable, with 93% of topsoil and 87% of subsoil rated adequate or surplus. No topsoil was reported as very short, and only 1% of subsoil fell into that category.
Livestock conditions were also reported as generally good despite the heat and high humidity.
With strong crop conditions and adequate moisture, Northwest Iowa’s growing season remains on a positive trajectory.
The full report is available at the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service website.
