Planting Persists Despite Rainy Conditions in Iowa

By Cami Koons

Iowa farmers had just over two days suitable for field work last week due to rainy conditions, but the percentages of corn and soybean acres planted remain ahead of average rates, according to the state’s crop progress and condition report.

State Climatologist Justin Glisan said Iowa had “an unseasonably wet reporting period” with the average precipitation for the week above 2 inches and more than 5 inches in some areas of the state. 

The precipitation raised soil moisture conditions, making topsoil conditions 86% adequate or wetter. Subsoil conditions rated 67% adequate moisture.

Thirty-four percent of Iowa’s corn acres and 25% of soybean acres are in the ground, which is up from 18% and 11% respectively from last week. Northwest Iowa has the highest percentages of crops in the group. 

Temperatures for the reporting period of April 21–April 27 averaged in the mid 50s, which is 2.2°F higher than normal. 

Iowa oat farmers are almost finished seeding as more than 80% of oat acres have been planted, though only 41% of anticipated oat acres have emerged, which is three days behind the year prior.

Pastures in Iowa rated 91% fair or better and according to the report, some cow-calf pairs across the state were put on pasture.  

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said the upcoming warm temperatures and potential break in rain events should “give farmers a window to get in the field.” The secretary also noted the Monday night forecast, which showed a potential for severe weather in the state. 

“This is a good reminder to Iowans to be vigilant, have safety plans in place, and be ready to take shelter if needed,” Naig said in a statement.

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