Iowa’s corn and soybeans continue to be ahead of the five-year average and last week a few reports of corn beginning to silk were received in parts of the state. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, soybean emergence statewide reached 96%, 16 days ahead of last year and one week ahead of the five-year average. In southeast Iowa, 97% of soybeans have emerged.

Iowa’s corn condition is rated at 85% good to excellent and soybeans are at 84% good to excellent.

In addition, 93% of the first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed.