Timely rainfall across our region brought much-needed relief, helping ease the extreme heat last week and providing more favorable conditions for both the crop and fieldwork. While the cooler temperatures are welcome, they may also create an environment that allows corn and soybeans diseases observed earlier this summer to become more active again. The prolonged stretch of hot halted disease progression over the past few weeks, but we’ll continue to monitor fields closely.

Overall, the crop remains in good condition as corn transitions from pollination into grain fill and soybeans move into pod fill. Continued rainfall over the next few weeks will be critical to help maximize yield potential and carry the crop through the remainder of the growing season. Fungicide remains in full swing this week, with acres being treated by drone, helicopter, airplane, and ground sprayers. Growers work to protect crop health during these key reproductive stages.

Last week’s heat has gone away for a little bit with highs being mid-70s, and lows being into the 50s. This cool weather won’t last for long with next week looking back into the high 90s, but it was nice while it lasted.

Starting off the weekend, our region received anywhere from .10-.50 of rainfall on Saturday, and then continuing into the week, the region received up to an inch of rain. The next couple of weeks look fairly dry as of now.

Despite the last few rains, the topsoil continues to dry rapidly due to the hot temperatures. It’s not uncommon to find cracks in the field while scouting.

Ground sprayers continue to protect yield and plant health on soybeans by continuing to apply post fungicide applications. Helicopters, planes, and drones continue to fly on corn fungicide this week. Many continue to mow, rake, and bale hay as weather permits.

Majority of the soybeans in our region have reached the R3 stage, with only a few later planted soybeans at the R2 stage. Our double-cropped soybeans were quick out of the ground and doing great!

Majority of the corn in our region has reached the VT and pushing R1, with some early planted corn at brown silk. Sweet corn harvest is in full swing in our region.