Weekly update on Iowa's crop progress and current agricultural conditions
As we move towards the end of August, Iowa's crops are progressing well, with strong condition ratings and favourable weather conditions. Here's a summary of the current status of alfalfa, soybeans, corn, and oats in the state.
Alfalfa
The third cutting of alfalfa hay is currently 65% complete. Pasture conditions are strong, rated 83% good to excellent, thanks to frequent rains that have extended grazing periods.
Soybeans
Ninety-six percent of Iowa's soybeans have reached the blooming stage, slightly ahead of last year’s pace but about four days behind the five-year average. Soybeans are setting pods at a rate of 83%, and the condition of the crop is rated around 82-82% good to excellent.
Corn
Corn in Iowa is doing well, with nearly all corn reaching the silking stage. Corn in the dough stage is at 78%, one day behind last year’s pace and three days behind normal. Corn in the dent stage reached 27%, just about even with last year. The condition of the corn crop is rated very positively, generally around 86% good to excellent, with only 3% in poor or very poor categories.
Oats
Harvest of oats for grain is well advanced, with 91% completed as of August 17, 2025.
Regarding weather and outlook, recent scattered precipitation has allowed for good fieldwork and crop development. Iowa currently has no drought or abnormal dryness, a positive sign for crop moisture. The forecast through the end of August anticipates cooler temperatures and seasonal rainfall, supporting continued crop progress.
In summary, Iowa’s 2025 crops are progressing well with strong condition ratings amid favourable weather conditions, though some crop stages are slightly behind normal timelines. Localized flooding is affecting some parts of eastern Iowa due to several waves of heavy rainfall.
[1] Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. (2025). Crop Progress and Condition Report. Retrieved from https://www.idal.iowa.gov/crop-reporting/crop-progress-and-condition-report
[2] National Agricultural Statistics Service. (2025). Iowa Weather and Crop Bulletin. Retrieved from https://www.nass.usda.gov/ia/
[3] Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. (2025). CropWatch. Retrieved from https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/
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