IP Crop Network- July update report

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The Midwest knows corn should be “knee high by the Fourth of July,” and extreme heat and humidity in parts of the region have helped blow past that marker. The weather has mostly helped crops grow quickly, while some areas have seen too much rain and are looking for a few dry days in the forecast. 

The Michigan soybean crop continues to make progress after passing the longest day of the year. The most advanced fields are now at R2 while others are still in vegetative stages. NASS reports that 25% of the crop is blooming, which compares to the five-year average of 19% at this point. Crop conditions are variable across the state, which has been affected by delayed planting and excess rainfall. NASS has the crop rated at 43% fair, 43% good and 5% excellent. Corn for the most part looks pretty good – first planted is not far from flag leaf while later planted is knee to waist high. 84% of the corn falls within the fair to good range. Wheat will be ready for harvest later this week or early next in the southeast part of the state, and 9% of the crop has been harvested statewide. The past couple of weeks have been very warm in most areas, but temperatures were cool before that, which slowed soybean growth. Stands are adequate in most areas. Post herbicide applications have been effective in controlling weeds but have caused more than normal crop response due to sunny and hot conditions during and after applications. Most crop responses were cosmetic with new growth being healthy and normal.  

Wisconsin’s soybean crop is progressing as expected in early July. Emergence is complete, and most fields have entered the blooming stage, with some beginning pod set ahead of the five-year average. June weather included steady rainfall and warm temperatures, supporting vegetative growth and timely crop development. Soil moisture levels are mostly within the adequate to surplus range, which has maintained crop health. This resulted in isolated areas that remain too wet for consistent access or late field applications. Crop condition ratings in Wisconsin are at 54% good to excellent, slightly below last year yet within typical ranges. Most fields display uniform canopy closure and nodulation. As the crop enters reproductive stages, scouting for white mold, sudden death syndrome and insect feeding will be necessary, especially under forecasted warm and humid conditions. Early indicators point to a potentially productive season if July weather conditions remain stable. Ongoing disease management, nutrient monitoring and timely fieldwork will continue to influence yield potential.  

Illinois is actually in a slight drought, at odds with the rest of the country. Over 30% of cropland in Illinois is short in moisture for both topsoil and subsoil. Precipitation has been really scattered, and areas that haven’t gotten much rain are showing it in the yards and ditches with dead grass. The lack of rain hasn’t hurt the beans and corn yet – they’re rooting well to get down to the nutrients – but cracks are beginning to show in the field. Beans in east-central Illinois are in R2 but getting close to R3 meaning a fungicide application. Farmers are prepping to get out in the field and do just that. Last week’s hot temperatures helped the corn to tassel, and 21% is tasseled throughout the state. 38% of beans are blooming, and 5% have started setting pods. Overall, Illinois is looking for a general rain to keep the plants healthy. 

Minnesota is extremely wet throughout most areas. Soil moisture conditions are over 90% in the adequate to surplus range for both topsoil and subsoil. While crops on tile ground are handling the water, some dry days are needed to let the beans get caught up to where they should be. Soybeans are about 5% below average when it comes to blooming but are overall mostly within the fair to good condition range. Corn is right on track with the 5-year average and falls mostly under the good condition range. There is more rain in the forecast for the next two weeks, so hopes are the forecast lessens on rain amounts. 

In North Dakota, the soybean crop is overall average. The weather over the past two weeks has been above average in both temperatures and moisture, which has resulted in good growth.. There are some areas that are dry, but so far, the soybeans are doing well in those areas. Soybeans are ahead of the five-year blooming average, sitting at 24%. 

SSGA’s IP Crop Network is published twice a month, highlighting growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both firsthand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports. 

IP Crop Network – End of June report

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Now that planting is done, farmers across the Midwest are playing the waiting game. During this time of year, it’s common to scout for diseases, insects and weeds, and address these issues accordingly before the crops get too big. Since rising temperatures can increase the risk of insect or disease infestations, a thorough scouting schedule will help identify potential problems in the field.

Everything in Michigan is looking pretty decent despite a period of excessive rainfall. Early planted corn is knee high and has good color. Beans are growing quickly now that the heat has arrived, and they are at 91% emergence across the state. The first planted ones are about 10” tall or more and mostly range across the fair to good condition. Spot spraying for weeds has taken place by some farmers in the beans before they get too big, but overall, the crops are pretty clean. Some spots had to be replanted due to excessive precipitation, but mostly the crops came up the first time.

The recent heat and moisture in Wisconsin are a welcome event after a prolonged period of cooler than normal temps. The dry subsoil concerns are somewhat diminished for now – 74% of subsoil falls into the adequate moisture range – while crop and weed growth are robust. The window for post-herbicide application is closing soon, and planting has been finished for a few weeks. The crop appears short in stature and stands are less than ideal in populations with the earliest planting dates, especially for drilled soybeans on heavier soils. Nearly 60% of Wisconsin soybeans fall into the good condition category, while only 10% are in the excellent category. No flowering has occurred yet in the northwestern part of the state, but buds will appear within days. Across the state, the NASS report shows 3% flowering. The edible bean emergence looks to be good as most of those are in irrigated sands.

In Illinois, IP beans are finally starting to grow. They were slow to grow for a while, but the recent heat has helped jump start the process. The weather is going to be very hot in the next 7-10 days, which should help the beans. Currently, the NASS report puts emergence at 90%, with over 60% being in the good to excellent condition category.

Figure 1, temperature

In the last two weeks, temperatures have been near average across most of Minnesota. In the southern part, temperatures were 1-3°F above average, encouraging rapid soybean growth (Figure 1). Additionally, in the southern region and the northwestern tip, less rainfall than usual was recorded, ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches (Figure 2), which could lead to drought stress in the future. In southern Minnesota, early planting dates are reaching the R1 stage. Soybean flowering is a critical phase for high yield, and 5% of soybeans across the state are blooming.

Figure 2, precipitation

North Dakota had a significant storm on June 20. This storm had high winds, tornados, hail and heavy rain. Many acres and farms were affected and are still working to determine the crop damage. Early indications suggest losses will likely be less than anticipated, but we will need to see how the soybeans respond over the next few days. During the storm, many farmers and elevators also lost grain storage due to the high winds. This is problematic since it is likely that some of the damaged grain bins will not be able to be repaired by harvest.

SSGA’s IP Crop Network is published twice a month, highlighting growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both firsthand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports.

IP Crop Network – June Report

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Planting is nearly complete across the Upper Midwest, with most states finishing up the crop’s final 10%. Below average temperatures are hindering growth, but once temperatures increase, the current soil moisture should lead to good plant growth.

For farmers growing identity preserved (IP) crops in northern Wisconsin, the past two weeks have been cooler and wetter than preferred. While soybean planting has finished and emergence in no-till has been slow, the edible dry bean crop has seen planting progress at a rapid pace and good emergence. Most dry beans are grown on fully tilled soils. There have been very few slugs or other pest issues, and herbicides have had ample rainfall to activate. Flowering will begin on the earliest planted soybeans by the summer solstice, June 21.

Southern Wisconsin is slightly ahead in development due to warmer-than-average temperatures, while cooler conditions in northern parts of the state are contributing to slower crop progress. Recent rainfall has helped improve overall soil moisture levels, though pockets of dryness remain. Forecasts for the coming week indicate cooler and drier-than-normal conditions across the region, which may slow growth in some fields. Thus far, no widespread disease or pest problems have been reported. However, regular scouting remains important, particularly as conditions shift. Weed pressure is beginning to build, with ragweed and other common species emerging. Timely herbicide applications and integrated weed management strategies will be key in minimizing competition and preserving yield potential. Overall, crop conditions remain favorable for strong yields, if growers continue proactive monitoring and timely rainfall throughout the remainder of the growing season.

In Illinois, over 60% of soil has adequate moisture levels, showing promise for the season ahead. Most planting is finished, and emergence is high for corn and soybeans. Emergence rates are higher than last year, but still slightly below the five-year average.

In May, more than 90% of all soybean acreage was planted in Minnesota, compared to just 69% in 2024 and an average of 74%, indicating good conditions for spring planting. Temperatures are lower than average, delaying germination and emergence in some areas, although emergence is generally considered good in current conditions. In the Crookston area in northwest Minnesota, the temperature is above average. All of central Minnesota is experiencing a surplus of around one inch of rainfall in most areas, but the corners are below average by the same. Across the state, 70% of areas have reported sufficient moisture levels. In mid and late-May, the state experienced high winds, which resulted in wind-induced soil erosion reported in some areas of the state.

North Dakota has reported higher-than-average emergence of both corn and soybeans due to excellent early planting conditions. Corn is10% higher than last year and 17% higher than the 5-year average, while soybeans are 11% higher in both categories. Soil moisture is 76% adequate, leading to good growing conditions.

SSGA’s IP Crop Network will be published twice a month, highlighting growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both firsthand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports.

IP Crop Network – May Report

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A torrent of rain has made its way throughout the Midwest in the back half of May. Farmers are hard at work trying to finish getting the crop in the ground. SSGA’s IP Crop Network will be published twice a month, highlighting growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both firsthand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports.

Planting has come to a standstill for parts of the Upper Midwest. There has been very little activity in the past 10 days due to rain and high winds. Everyone is sitting with adequate moisture for the most part so as soon as the fields are fit to be planted, the rest of the soybeans will be planted in plenty of time to ensure they reach maturity. In North Dakota, farmers are about 65% planted for food-grade soybeans and expect to be close to 100% in the next two weeks. Overall, farmers are at 58% planted for soybeans, which is well ahead of the 5-year average of 43%.

In Minnesota, 91% of soybeans have been planted with 56% emerged. This is again well ahead of the five-year average. Many farmers have finished planting and are starting to think about their next steps.

Over the past two weeks, favorable weather has provided a significant window for planting across Wisconsin. Extended dry conditions have allowed growers to make rapid progress with spring planting. Many farmers have not only caught up but are now ahead of schedule compared to recent years. According to the latest national planting progress reports, Wisconsin is outpacing both last year’s progress and the five-year average – a positive development for early crop establishment. Recent rainfall across much of the state has helped ease concerns about early-season moisture deficits. Reports from growers indicate rainfall totals between 1.0 and 1.5 inches in many areas, offering timely relief for germinating seeds and recently emerged crops. Soil moisture levels have improved modestly, though some variability remains depending on local precipitation patterns. Looking ahead, the seven-day forecast into June suggests continued chances for additional showers, which could further support early crop growth and soil recharge. However, farmers are keeping a close eye on potential delays in fieldwork, particularly herbicide applications and post-emergence treatments, should rainfall persist. Crop conditions so far appear favorable, with early-planted corn and soybeans showing strong emergence in fields with good drainage.

In east central Illinois, the mid-April corn planting looks great along with the later planted corn, and farmers are starting to spray post herbicides. Mid-April beans are growing slower than wanted because of cooler temperatures but will hopefully take off soon. The last planted beans are just starting to emerge – Illinois is at 58% emergence as of the most recent NASS report. Last week saw 2.5 inches of rain and an F1 tornado about half a mile from one grower’s shop, but no significant field damage.

In southeast Michigan, farmers are still planting to keep up the pace. They can see the end of corn planting and soybeans are over half done. Farmers have had plenty of rain delays this spring overall. For the week ending May 25, Michigan farmers only had 2.4 suitable days for fieldwork.

According to the USDA NASS report, Missouri experienced 3.7 days suitable for fieldwork, providing a small window for planting, spraying, and other fieldwork activities in the week ending May 25. Growing conditions remain strong across the board, and moisture levels continue to support early season growth. Overall, soil profiles are in good condition with 75% of topsoil and 80% of subsoil having adequate moisture levels. The winter wheat crop is looking very good with 75% being rated at good to excellent. 96% of the crop has headed which is 3% ahead of the 5-year average. 94% of the corn crop has been planted, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 90%. Of the corn that has been planted, 78% has emerged. 72% of soybean acres have been planted which is well ahead of the 5-year average of 53%, with 48% emerged.

Stay tuned for more updates from SSGA throughout the growing season. View the entire NASS report from May 27 here. 

IP Crop Network – May Report

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The weather is heating up and so is planting across the Midwest. SSGA’s IP Crop Network will be published twice a month, highlighting growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both first-hand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports. 

Planting activities over the past 7 days in northwest Wisconsin have been at a most rapid pace. Nearly perfect planting conditions prevail across the region. The earliest planted corn is emerging, and soybeans are a little slower with some just peeking out. It is very much on the dry side with some producers starting to nudge the seed a little deeper into moisture.  

Planting is in full swing across southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, with strong momentum continuing thanks to favorable weather. According to the USDA’s May 12 report, approximately 40% of soybeans had been planted in Wisconsin. Many growers are aiming to wrap up soybean planting by this weekend or early next week if conditions hold. With this pace, one can expect to see soybean emergence beginning as early as late next week in many fields. This marks a critical phase in the growing season as the young plants begin developing their vegetative structure—laying the foundation for future reproductive growth and yield potential. Uniform emergence and early vigor will be key indicators to watch over the next two weeks as plants transition into establishing a robust canopy and strong root systems later in their growth. 

Spring planting is progressing at a brisk pace across North Dakota. For the week ending May 11, 2025, 26% of soybean acres had been planted—well ahead of last year’s 6% and the five-year average of 8%. Early-season field conditions were favorable. Crops were seeded into warm, moist seedbeds that supported quick germination and strong initial emergence. Soil temperatures rose steadily providing excellent early growing conditions. 

However, a shift in the weather pattern brought a stretch of unseasonably hot and dry conditions last week, leading to a rapid decline in topsoil moisture. The region experienced record-breaking temperatures over the weekend; some areas experienced up to 100-101°F. While planting progress is ahead of schedule, continued hot, dry conditions could impact crop establishment if rainfall doesn’t return soon. The next two weeks will be critical for stand development and moisture conservation. 

In Michigan, one grower started planting corn on Sunday and identity preserved soybeans on Monday. Planting has been slow in the past week due to wet conditions, but overall, ahead of normal progress with 29% of soybeans planted according to the most recent NASS report. 

The 2025 growing season has a good start in Michigan. There was a window of several days at the end of April which allowed for some good planting conditions and progress in many crops including soybeans. Many of the April planted crops have emerged while some others are struggling to push through crusted soil.  

According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Missouri farmers had 4.9 suitable days for fieldwork during the week ending May 11. Wet weather in central and eastern parts of the state has slowed progress some, but overall, planting is still moving forward at a steady pace. 68% of corn acres have been planted, closely tracking the 5-year average of 71%. About 43% of the planted crop has emerged. Soybean planting is ahead of schedule at 40%, compared to the 5-year average of 29%. Approximately 17% of the crop has emerged. The winter wheat crop is looking very strong with 78% rated as good to excellent and 76% having headed. Soil conditions remain favorable statewide. Topsoil moisture is rated 97% adequate to surplus, and subsoil moisture is at 96%.  

Missouri soils are holding plenty of moisture headed into the heart of planting season, which should support early crop development – once the field conditions dry out enough to allow more progress. 

In Minnesota, early spring was wet, which delayed planting. Recently, farmers were lucky with little rain, allowing planting to progress quickly and to catch up. Corn is 75% planted, as of the May 12 NASS report, and soybeans are at 52%. This is well ahead of the 5-year average. With little rain in the forecast for the week, farmers are hopeful to finish at least corn by the end of the week. 

With conditions looking favorable in most areas, growers are hopeful to finish planting within the next week or so. Stay tuned for more updates from SSGA throughout the growing season. View the entire NASS report from May 12 here. 

IP Crop Network – April Report

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To those in agriculture, spring is like a breath of fresh air; a clean slate to nurture and grow the next crop that will feed the world. SSGA’s IP Crop Network will be published twice a month, highlighting growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both first-hand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports. 

There has been very little planting in North Dakota. A small amount of small grains have been planted, including 10% of spring wheat. Three percent of sugar beets have been planted, slightly below the five-year average.  

Planting in Minnesota is just ramping up, too, with 3% of soybeans planted and 9% of corn planted. Several farmers in various locations around the state planned to start planting this week. 62% of topsoil and 53 of subsoil has adequate moisture. 

In northwest Wisconsin, soil conditions are quite dry and cool. There have been some early small grains seeded but very little corn or soybean planting has happened. Fertilizer is being broadcast and some light tillage on fields that are fit to be on. Sub-soil conditions are very dry. 

In southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, there are some reports of food-grade soybeans being planted. Ground temperatures are slightly low but as temperatures rise this week, a significant increase in planting activity should follow.  

The southern third of Illinois is very wet. Some planting is occurring on dry ridges and sand, but overall, 10% of the state’s soybeans are planted and 7% of corn is planted. Growers in eastern Illinois reported fast and furious planting of soybeans in the last several days. One eager grower in eastern Illinois planted a small amount of soybeans in mid-March, but with too much moisture, the beans only just emerged a few days ago.  

There are just a few fields of soybeans planted in Michigan at this time. Most fields are a little wet and temperatures are cold. There is rain in the weather forecast but also warmer temperatures. Many growers are hopeful to begin planting the last week of April but will wait for good conditions.  

Growers will continue to monitor conditions and will eagerly begin planting as soon as their fields are ready. Stay tuned for more updates from SSGA throughout the growing season.  View the entire NASS report from April 21 here. 

IP Crop Network – November Report

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This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this report.  

Michigan
Soybean harvest is nearly complete in Michigan. Harvest was smooth and efficient this fall with good weather. Some soybean moisture was lower than hoped for at 9-11%, but many others were harvested near ideal at 12-14%. Beans went into storage in good condition.

The November USDA NASS Crop Production Report estimates a state average yield of 51 bushels per acre. This is very good for Michigan as our record state average is 51.5 bushels.

Anecdotal conversations with farmers and elevator operators indicate that a significant portion of the 2024 soybean crop has not been priced as growers are hopeful for better price opportunities in the future.

 – Mark Seamon, Research Director, Michigan Soybean Committee  

 

Minnesota
Minnesota was dry, but early November rains eased drought concerns a bit. If fall rains do not restore soil moisture status, planting in 2025 will prove to be interesting. According to the drought monitor, about 84% of the state is rated moderate to severe drought (D1-D2) status. As reported in the Nov. 4 USDA MN Crop Progress report, topsoil moisture supplies were rated 63% short to very short, 35% adequate and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were rated 59% short to very short, 40% adequate and 1% surplus.

Crop harvest is all but complete in Minnesota. Corn silage, small grains, edible beans, and soybeans have been largely harvested. Corn grain harvest is proceeding rapidly with 95% harvested by Nov. 4. Grain moisture has been sufficiently low that grain drying, so far, is limited in scope. Early on, soybean harvest was slowed due to excessive green stems and overly dry pods/seeds reducing combine speeds. Some farmers are concerned about future crop volunteer corn and soybean issues in 2025 due to excessive harvest escapes. Farmer yield reports vary from “weather impacted” to “about average.”

Field work, soil sampling, tillage, manure, fertilizer applications, etc., continues. Soil temperatures have been excessively high (>50oF), limiting fall N fertilizer and manure applications. When soil temps drop (<50oF), nitrogen, as well as P and K, fertilizers will be going down. An early freeze of surface soils may shut down nutrient applications, an event that would add a lot more work to be done before the 2025 planting season starts. Current soil temperatures make this a doubtful event. Given the recent low river levels around Memphis, there is still some concern expressed about crop input availability in the spring.

 – David Kee, Director of Research, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council  

 

North Dakota
North Dakota had a great soybean production season in 2024 despite disease challenges such as white mold, phytophthora and soybean cyst nematode. According to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) report on Nov. 8, North Dakota’s 2024 soybean production is forecast at a record 251 million bushels, up 15% from last year’s production of 219 million bushels. The area for harvest, at 6.6 million acres, is up 7% from 2023. The yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, relative to 35.5 bushels per acre last year.

Unlike many falls, we had a relatively warm and dry fall this season that allowed farmers to have a smooth and efficient harvest. The soybean harvest was completed 1-2 weeks ago; the corn and sunflower harvest continues and is close to being done this week.

Now that harvest is almost completed, we need moisture to replenish topsoil and subsoil moisture for the next crop growing season.

 –Miki Miheguli, Director of Agronomy & Research, North Dakota Soybean Council  

 

Missouri
According to the USDA’s NASS, farmers had 4.8 suitable days for field work in the week ending Nov. 3, 2024.

Harvest is starting to wrap up for most of the state of Missouri. Corn harvest is sitting at 91% which is 8% ahead of the 83% 5-year average. Soybean harvest is slightly behind corn at 86% of the crop being harvested but is still 17% ahead of the 69% 5-year average.

The soybean crop was looking very promising for much of the state, until southeast Missouri got hit with rain from Hurricane Helene. This article from state soybean specialist Dr. Andre Froes de Borja Reis details the unusual circumstances that happened in Helene’s path.

Winter wheat planting is well underway as well, sitting at 79% planted, which is 11% ahead of the 69% 5-year average. The crop is looking good so far with 44% emerged and 61% rated as good to excellent.

– Blake Barlow, Director of Agronomy & Research, Missouri Soybeans

IP Crop Network – October Report

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This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this report.  

Illinois
Illinois’ harvest is progressing along nicely. Corn harvest is running on the five-year average around 31%, while soybean harvest is running ahead of pace at around 45%. Overall, corn yields are better than expected. Soybean yields are all over the board. Some very good yields, 90-plus, being reported where the August rains fell. And where they didn’t, yields of 35-45 bushels per acre are common. There’s a definite trend on earlier maturity beans being some of the highest-yielding acres. We will see a shift in maturity next planting season with more acres going to late 2 to early 3 and less group 4 beans. 

 – Scott A. Eversgerd, Field Agronomist – Southern Illinois, Pioneer Hi-Bred Int’l  

 Michigan 

Soybean harvest is well ahead of schedule this fall in Michigan. USDA reports that 40% of our crop was harvested as of Oct. 6. This compares to a five-year average of 21% at this time. Some soybeans have been harvested at very dry moisture content (less than 10%) even when soybean stems are tough to pass through the combine. 

Harvest timing of soybeans is very good for winter wheat planting, but soil moisture levels are so low that germination and emergence are delayed and/or variable. Most soybean growers are pleased with being able to harvest without rain interruptions and grain going directly to storage or not paying drying charges.     

 – Mark Seamon, Research Director, Michigan Soybean Committee  

 Minnesota
After a very wet spring, Minnesota is dry yet again! According to the Oct. 3 drought monitor report, about 94% of Minnesota is in the early stages of drought (rated D0-D1). The Oct. 7 Minnesota Crop Progress Report states topsoil moisture supplies were rated 57% short to very short, 42% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were rated 40% short to very short, 58% adequate, and 2% surplus. 2024 has been a different year. Soil went from excessively dry in March 2024 to excessively wet in June back to dry in October. Rain will be needed this fall to ease drought stress this winter. Without rain, the 2025 planting season will be more than a little interesting. 

With temperature highs consistently in the upper 80s, late August and September were warm and largely dry, allowing the crops to accumulate the heat units needed to mature the crop. Consequently, crop harvest is well underway in Minnesota. The small grains harvest is all but complete, with some growers reporting lower than normal yields. Edible bean harvest is almost complete with more than 86% in the bins. Corn grain harvest has started. What limited reports for corn yields I have varied considerably. Following a delayed planting season due to excessive May rains, precipitation, or lack thereof, from the August thunderstorms were quite impactful. Those sites with deep rooting zones shine, especially in areas adjoining a drowned-out spot. Soybean harvest is in full swing. Excessive weed escape, soybean pod pops and green stems have resulted in reduced combine harvest speed. Farmer yield reports vary from “pretty bad” to “much better than expected!” Given the current dry forecast, harvest should be completed earlier than average. This will leave time to correct some of the field damage created during the wet spring. 

Field work continues, especially on compacted sites and drown-out spots. Tillage happens when resources (drivers and tractors) are available, mostly until the morning dew evaporates. What limited scattered showers we receive are softening some ground. Soil temperatures remain well above 50oF, thus limiting the fall N fertilizer application window. However, ag lime, P and K fertilizers are being applied. There is a great concern expressed concerning soil moisture availability impact on cover crops and winter small grains establishment. Farmers are expressing concern about moisture recharge and soil moisture status for next year’s crops. We will not know the true impact on these issues for some time. 

 – David Kee, Director of Research, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council  

Missouri 

The dry weather continues in Missouri with 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending Oct. 6, according to the USDA-NASS crop progress report. Corn harvest is well underway at 62% harvested which is 17% ahead of the 45% 5-year average. The yields have been exceptionally high from the conversations I have had, and the report confirms that 84% of the crop is rated good to excellent. 

Soybeans are also looking very good, with 72% rated good to excellent. There is slightly more variability in the soybean crop due to the lack of rainfall late in the summer when pods were filling. Harvest is 23% complete, 9% ahead of the 5-year average. 

For our winter wheat, 10% has been planted, and 2% has emerged, which puts us right on track for the five-year average.   

– Blake Barlow, Director of Agronomy & Research, Missouri Soybeans 

Wisconsin 

According to the USDA NASS reports, farmers in Wisconsin had 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Oct 6. The warm and dry conditions allowed for good progress in the soybean harvest and advanced corn maturity. However, soil moisture levels have begun to decline, with 39% of topsoil and 35% of subsoil rated as short. Still, 45% of topsoil and 53% of subsoil are considered adequate. 

Corn is on track, with 95% of the crop now in the dent stage and 70% fully mature. That’s about a day behind last year but a day ahead of the five-year average. So far, 10% of the corn for grain has been harvested, and the corn silage harvest is 80% complete, which is ahead of both last year and the average. Corn condition has dropped by 3% from last week, now standing at 61% rated good to excellent. 

For soybeans, 97% are changing color, and 90% are dropping leaves. The soybean harvest is now 61% complete, putting us 12 days ahead of last year and two weeks ahead of the average. Soybean condition has dipped slightly, with 59% rated good to excellent, down 5% from last week. 

Winter wheat planting is progressing well, with 63% completed, which is two days ahead of both last year and the average. Additionally, 36% of the winter wheat has emerged. 

– Shawn Conley, State Extension Soybean and Small Grain Specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison  

IP Crop Network – September Report

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This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this report. 

Illinois
Harvest has begun in full force in the southern part of Illinois with early yield results being “above average.” Some of the early bean yields, maturity 2.5-3.2, are in the 75-90 bushel/acre range with a few small areas climbing to 100. April planted corn is dry, running 13-15% moisture with excellent yields. The “harvest line” will continue to push north at the pace of about 50-75 miles/week. Harvest in central Illinois will likely get running hard in about 2-3 weeks.

Many areas of the state, especially the southern half, are moisture-deficit right now. But looking at the forecast, the driest areas are in line for the tropical depression to bring some much-needed moisture. The late planted beans and the double crop beans behind wheat have likely had the top edge taken off due the dry conditions of the last four weeks. However, yields should still be average to just slightly above average. Fall seeding of wheat, cover crops and other fall crops is steadily happening as the time is right and crop comes off.

– Scott A. Eversgerd, Field Agronomist – Southern Illinois, Pioneer Hi-Bred Int’l

 

Michigan

The Michigan soybean crop is responding to shorter days and cooler nights by moving into late maturity stages. Most fields are in R6-R8 stage with exceptions on either side. Late season weather has not been extreme in any directions with a tendency for drier than optimum soil conditions in many areas. Where irrigation is available, water is being pumped more in the past three weeks than any other time this year. Hopefully dryland soybeans have access to deep soil moisture to develop adequate seed size.

While crop pests have not been a big concern in the past month, it is not difficult to find Japanese beetles, bean leaf beetles, soybean aphids, downy mildew, septoria brown spot, soybean vein necrosis, Sudden Death Syndrome and white mold. In almost all cases, these pests are below action thresholds and are being observed for management tactics in 2025.

The Sept. 9 USDA Crop Weather Report shows the Michigan soybean crop as 59% good to excellent and 29% fair with 26% dropping leaves. The status of dropping leaves is 5% above our five-year average for this date. Harvest dates should be a little earlier than normal this year.

– Mark Seamon, Research Director, Michigan Soybean Committee

 

Minnesota
Minnesota is drying down a bit, with 12.5% of the state reported to be abnormally dry. The Sept. 3 USDA-NASS MN Crop Progress reports “Topsoil moisture supplies were rated 12% very short to short, 77% adequate and 11% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were rated 7% very short to short, 81% adequate and 12% surplus.” Many of the crop growth parameters are lagging the five-year average. However, the crops are maturing at an acceptable rate. An early freeze could seriously impact yield and quality of the crops.

Harvest is underway in Minnesota. The small grains are being harvested. Small grain growers are reporting variable yields due to the planting delays. Some growers are reporting issues with falling numbers. The excess water experienced earlier in the season impacted these crops. Soybeans are setting pods and reached 92% in early September. Reports of green stem syndrome, which occurred frequently in the drought years, have been nominal. However, this syndrome is usually not spotted until leaf drop occurs. The condition of the crop was rated 66 percent good to excellent.

As leaves senesce, germination of late season weed seeds, especially waterhemp, in soybean and corn fields have been reported. This may make the results of Harvest Weed Seed Destruction studies very interesting. Most populations are manageable; however, there has been increased grower interest in pre- and post-harvest weed control options.

Planting into moist soils may have introduced compaction issues in some fields. Given the current harvest (soil) conditions, growers are optimistic about completing fall field work and tillage after a successful harvest.

– David Kee, Director of Research, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council

 

Missouri
Missouri has been dry the past three weeks with an average of 6.4 suitable days for field work each week according to the USDA-NASS crop progress report. The week ending Sept. 8, 2024, had 6.8 suitable days for field work.

Corn harvest has started across the state with 46% at maturity and 7% already out of the field. The crop is looking great with 82% rated good to excellent and the yields are confirming that in the fields that have been harvested.

Soybeans are nearing maturity with 14% dropping leaves, 8% higher than the 5-year average, indicating a slightly earlier harvest than normal. The soybean crop is also looking very good with 73% rated good to excellent!

– Blake Barlow, Director of Agronomy & Research, Missouri Soybeans

 

Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, the weather conditions for the week ending Sept. 8, 2024, were favorable for farm work, with six days considered suitable for field activities, according to the USDA-NASS crop progress report. Farmers completed the small grain harvest and began planting fall-seeded crops. Despite a dry week, moisture levels remained strong, with 80% of topsoil and subsoil across the state rated as adequate to surplus.

Corn development made good progress, with 90% of the crop reaching the dough stage and 58% in the dent stage. The mature stage had advanced to 5%. Corn condition remained stable at 64% rated as good to excellent, similar to the previous week.

Soybean pod setting was nearly complete, with 45% beginning to change color—two days ahead of both last year and the five-year average. About 10% of soybeans were dropping leaves. The overall condition of the soybeans improved slightly, with 62% rated as good to excellent.

Oat harvest was nearly complete, with 98% of the crop already harvested. Winter wheat planting has advanced to 11%, and there were initial reports of emergence in some fields.

– Shawn Conley, State Extension Soybean and Small Grain Specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison

 

IP Crop Network – August Report

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This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this report. 

Illinois
As I travel across the state, I have to say I think the USDA may have the right yield number. 225 bushels per acre is a BIG number for a corn average across the state, but the crop looks amazing. What’s scary to think about is for every acre that makes only 180-200, there has to be an acre making 240-260. It’s simple math, but still hard to process those kinds of yields on a wide scale.

The bean crop is well on its way to BIG yields as well. The August temperatures have been about as pleasant as you can get. Even in southern Illinois, having temps every day in the low-mid 80s is unheard of for August. The only real question now is how fast, or slow, does the crop mature and dry down for harvest.

– Scott A. Eversgerd, Field Agronomist – Southern Illinois, Pioneer Hi-Bred Int’l 

Minnesota
After an extremely wet and difficult planting season, soil moisture in Minnesota is uniformly not dry. According to the drought monitor, none of Minnesota is reported to be in any form of drought. Drown out spots are widespread. The amount of acreage lost to drown out in 2024 will be significant. However, yield potential for the remaining cropland is high. Soil moisture is variable, but sufficient for most of the state. USDA-National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reports topsoil moisture supplies were rated 7% short and 93% percent adequate to surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6% short and 94% adequate to surplus.

Corn condition was rated 58% good to excellent, Soybean condition was rated 63% good to excellent, and spring wheat condition was rated 83% good to excellent. Reports from several wind shield surveys indicate weed control programs were largely successful. However, canopy closure is delayed, and most farmers have used a second pass program to insure weed damage was limited, especially for waterhemp. Diseases, especially phytophthora and white mold, have been reported; farmers are managing them as best as possible. It is a bit early for soybean sudden death syndrome and brown stem rot to become evident. Scouting reports of soybean aphids and other insects being found are increasing; the insect population is being managed as they hit threshold.

Crop growth stage is progressing, but like many crops, remains behind average. According to the Aug. 5 Minnesota Crop Progress Report, soybeans blooming or beyond reached 83%, seven days behind average. Soybeans setting pods reached 48%. Corn silking was at 81%, five days behind the five-year average. Corn dough reached 31 percent. Spring wheat was 100% headed and 3 percent harvested. It appears, due to the delayed planting date, the wheat harvest window may be very compacted.

Grain yield in 2024 will be greatly dependent on rain fall and soil moisture as seed/kernels fill over the next six weeks. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting much of Minnesota to have equal chances of moisture and temperature being above or below normal for late August and September. Due to the variable planting dates and variable soil moisture status, yield estimates across the state are highly variable. In addition, we could have an early killing frost, which would severely impact yields at harvest. Minnesota farmers will make a crop; how much of a crop is up for debate.

 – David Kee, Director of Research, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council 

Missouri
Missouri farmers had 6.6 suitable days for fieldwork for the week ending Aug. 11, according to the USDA-NASS crop progress report. With topsoil moisture content at 70% adequate to surplus, conditions are good, but we will need rain soon to retain the yield potential.

Soybean conditions are good with 77% of the crop being good to excellent. Soybean blooming is at 84%, 2% higher than the 5-year average, with 64% of the crop setting pods.

Corn conditions are also good with 81% being good to excellent. Corn silking has reached 86% with approximately 44% dented, which is 25% ahead of the 5-year average.

Overall, the corn and soybean crops are looking good across the state!

– Blake Barlow, Director of Agronomy & Research, Missouri Soybeans

Wisconsin
For the week ending Aug. 11, Wisconsin farmers had approximately 5.3 suitable days for fieldwork, according to USDA-NASS crop progress report. Early-week rain slowed fieldwork, especially in central Wisconsin, and increased topsoil and subsoil moisture levels to over 90% adequate to surplus across the state.

Corn silking had progressed to 84% completion, which is four days behind last year. About 36% of the corn had reached the dough stage, and 5% had reached the dent stage. Corn was rated 63% in good to excellent condition, up 2% from the previous week.

Soybean blooming reached 88%, with 66% of soybeans setting pods, which is three days ahead of last year. Soybean conditions improved 2% from previous week, reaching 62% good to excellent.

Oats coloring was at 95%, and 58% of the oat for grain crop had been harvested, which is 3 days ahead of last year and 5 days ahead of the 2019-2023 average. The winter wheat harvested for grain was nearly complete, with 94% done.

– Shawn Conley, State Extension Soybean and Small Grain Specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison