Corn fields are showing signs of stress and leaf rolling during this high heat environment. Several fields were observed with tassels appearing and some silks. Another good indicator of how even fields will be are how uniformly we see tassels. I suspect there will be fields with non-uniform flowering. Soybean fields are growing nicely. I observed one 30″ field that was near closing the row. Soybeans will be flowering very soon if not already. Fungicide applications for corn will start soon. Soybeans still have some time. Spider mites could be a potential threat if the continued hot and dry weather persists.

Hot and dry. Most of central Illinois has seen hot temperatures for multiple days. A storm system went through most of the area. Most of the meaningful rain stayed north of interstate 72 but even then it was sporadic. Wind events as well as some hail were reported with the storms.

This week there are better chances of rain and thus will help get through the critical pollination time frame for corn.

Depending on rainfall, some fields will be fit for travelling across very soon. Others may take some time.

Wheat and spraying are finishing up on most crops. Preparations are underway for fungicide applications.

V3-R1

V6-R1

Harvest is happening around the area.

No damage was noted related to insects. Japanese beetles continue to increase in numbers.

Weeds are still a problem. The spring rains have made multiple flushes of weeds hard to completely control.

None observed

Ponding from previous rains will continue to make for uneven fields.