While some growers are enjoying conditions that are “just about right” for corn and soybeans, others continue to struggle with fields that are too wet or too dry – often in the same state.  Timeliness is paramount not only for good yield potential. Full coverage planting deadlines for corn crop insurance are rapidly approaching, or in some cases past.

“Just finished planting corn,” a said a grower in eastern South Dakota, where some farmers face a deadline today for full coverage. “Left many low spots unplanted due to wetness!”

While some growers are enjoying conditions that are “just about right” for corn and soybeans, others continue to struggle with fields that are too wet or too dry. (Photo: Koele/Thinkstock)

Growers in much of Minnesota and Iowa have until the end of May to make their planting deadline for corn.  Some continue to struggle with wet, and until recently, cold conditions.

“Only about 1/3 of the last 40 days have been dry enough for field work,” noted a Minnesota farmer who started planting April 14. “Much rain, some cold and frost.  Much replanting. The soils, creeks, rivers and lakes are full of water.”

Yet just to the south in central Iowa, some fields are in need of a good drink. “Very dry in our area,” said a producer near Ames. “Significant rains have missed us. Soil moisture is adequate for the moment but won't last long as crop growth rates increase.”

Still, a few more farmers are reporting crops in good shape. Conditions reported so far this week are up to average for corn. Soybeans improved a little, but remain a little below average due to emergence troubles.

“Beans going in in less than ideal conditions,” said a Minnesota farmer.  “Some early planted bean fields were dug up and replanted due to emergence issues or frost damage.

Heavy rains moving out of eastern Nebraska today could provide help, and hindrance, though less moisture is forecast for the soggy eastern Midwest.

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Feedback from the Field - May 23, 2016 - Corn Belt dries out a little as mid-May deadline arrives

Feedback from the Field - May 18, 2016 - Growers worry about frost damage from weekend's chill

Feedback from the Field - May 14, 2016 - Growers hope to get back into the field

Feedback from the Field - May 13, 2016 - Planting delays grab market's attention

Feedback from the Field - May 11, 2016 - It's deju vu all over again as wet weather continues

Feedback from the Field - May 9, 2016 - Weather challenges farmers in eastern Midwest

Feedback from the Field - May 3, 2016 - Growers say wet weather stalls planting

Feedback from the Field - May 2, 2016 - Some crops off to slow start as wet and cold hamper planting