Nearly constant winds made spraying of crops difficult for Iowa farmers in the past week, which saw an estimated 4.7 days suitable for field work. Unseasonably warm temperatures and some moisture aided in crop development according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services’ Iowa Crop Progress and Conditions Report for the week ending June 21. “Widely variable rainfall amounts across the state over the past week brought excess moisture to areas of northern and eastern Iowa, while parts of west-central and southwest Iowa remain drier than normal,” says Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig. “Overall, above average temperatures continue to allow for rapid crop development.” There have been a few reports of corn beginning to silk and the average conditions are being reported at 85 percent good to excellent. Soybean emergence has reached 96 percent, which is 16 days ahead of last year and one week ahead of the five-year average. Soybeans are rated 84 percent good to excellent. The full crop report can be found at nass.usda.gov/ia.
