Corn and soybeans throughout Central Iowa are doing fairly well according to Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Field Agronomist Mike Witt.

Witt shares that most corn is in the V-10 stage of the growing phase, which means it’s been roughly six to eight weeks since vegetative emergence and close to producing a tassel, and that soybeans are a little more varied, but are still doing well. He explains that the cycle of rain and heat has been excellent for growing conditions, as it cycles enough to really allow the crops to absorb the moisture and develop. Witt tells Raccoon Valley Radio that with all the rain and flooding in the northwest part of the state though, farmers should prepare for when that water makes its way down river.

“Obviously, if you have ground or if you live somewhere near the rivers in which the water levels are going to rise, being prepared for that is very important. There’s not much you can do as far as protecting your fields if the river runs up above, but again, know what could be happening. Speak to flood insurance (representatives) and those types of things beforehand, so in case you have those issues, you know what to do.”

Witt mentions that currently, moisture levels are adequate at the topsoil and subsoil levels, meaning that crops have plenty of water for now. He adds that at this time, there also haven’t been many reports of pests or diseases in the fields, but that that may change in the next month or so.