The 2024 growing season is ending on the dry side in Northeast Illinois. Aerial cover crop seed application has started, but limited harvest activity has taken place in the region. I continue to be surprised at the difference in maturity and color of crops across and within fields. From plants ready to harvest, to those mostly green from top to bottom. This was very apparent at the University of Illinois Soybean Variety Testing plot near DeKalb. Late season disease symptoms showing up in soy include SDS (to be confirmed by the plant clinic). Looking at corn ears, we see smaller kernels in areas effected by late season drought, the impact on final yield will be determined soon at harvest.