Weekly update on Iowa's crop progress and current conditions
In the heartland of America, Iowa's agricultural landscape is flourishing, thanks to a combination of favorable weather and soil conditions. According to the USDA's latest crop progress report (as of August 11, 2025), both corn and soybeans are showing strong development and good to excellent condition ratings.
Corn is making impressive strides, with 92% of the crops silking and 65% entering the dough stage. More significantly, 53% of the corn has reached the dough stage, and 15% has dented, slightly ahead of last year and average timelines. Corn condition is rated very poor to poor at 3%, fair at 11%, good at 57%, and excellent at 29%.
Soybeans are also healthy, with 89% blooming and 64% setting pods. Although slightly behind the normal pace for pod development, soybeans are progressing well, with 59% rated as good and 21% in excellent condition.
Soil moisture is abundant, with 68% of topsoil rated adequate and 30% surplus, and 71% of subsoil rated adequate and 26% surplus. The weather has been favorable, with above-normal temperatures and precipitation slightly above average, contributing to the crops' robust growth.
The nationwide outlook is equally promising, with the USDA's August report indicating record-high U.S. corn yields at 188.8 bushels per acre. This marked increase from last year and trade expectations signals a potentially massive corn crop, with Iowa as a major contributor. Soybean production estimates are strong, though not as record-breaking as corn.
Amidst this agricultural success, Iowans are gearing up for the world-famous Iowa State Fair, set to take place. Ag Secretary Mike Naig has assured that the first several days of the fair will experience seasonal temperatures.
However, last week's derecho and storms caused scattered reports of crop damage or downing in Iowa. Yet, the recent clearance of Canadian wildfire smoke has allowed for a more accurate assessment of the crops' conditions, which, for the most part, remain strong.
As for hay, the condition in Iowa is rated 84-percent good to excellent. Meanwhile, almost all of Iowa's oats have turned color, and 64% of oats for grain have been harvested.
Market reactions have been active, with soybean prices rising sharply following the update, reflecting the strong performance of the crops. As the growing season progresses, farmers and market analysts will closely monitor the crops' development to anticipate potential yields and market fluctuations.
- The corn in Iowa is making impressive strides, with a higher percentage entering the dough stage compared to last year and usual times, as indicated by the USDA's crop progress report.
- Even after last week's derecho and storms, the crops in Iowa, for the most part, remain in strong condition, especially the corn and soybeans.
- As the agricultural landscape of Iowa continues to flourish due to favorable weather and soil conditions, Iowans are preparing for the Iowa State Fair.
- Soybean prices have risen significantly, as they reflect the strong performance of the crops, according to market reactions.
