In the week’s Crop Progress and Condition Report, cooler than normal temperatures and dry weather led to 4.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 21, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Farmers were still planting corn, soybeans, and oats as planting activities near completion.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 20 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 7 percent very short, 25 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus.

Ninety-five percent of Iowa’s expected corn crop has been planted, 9 days ahead of last year and 12 days ahead of the 5-year average. Sixty-five percent of the corn crop has emerged, 6 days ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of the average. Eighty-four percent of the state’s expected soybean crop has been planted, just over a week ahead of last year and nearly 2 weeks ahead of normal. Forty-three percent of soybeans have emerged, 8 days ahead of last year and 6 days ahead of average. Ninety-four percent of the expected oat crop has emerged, 8 days ahead of the average. Eleven percent of the oat crop has headed, 9 days ahead of last year and 10 days ahead of normal. Oat condition improved to 80 percent good to excellent.

Eight percent of Iowa’s first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed. Hay condition declined to 66 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 58 percent good to excellent. More reports of livestock turned out to pasture were received, and overall livestock conditions are good.

For a copy of all 2023 Crop Progress and Condition Reports, click here.