The USDA's latest crop progress and condition report shows significant movement in Iowa's 2025 corn and soybean growing season. As of the week ending August 24, 45% of the state's corn acres are in the dent stage, marking a major milestone in crop development. Meanwhile, 88% of Iowa's corn has reached the dough stage, though that is still three days behind the five-year average.

Soybeans are also showing healthy progression, with 90% of acres setting pods and early signs of coloring beginning to emerge. However, similar to corn, soybeans are lagging a day or two behind the seasonal average.

Crop quality remains mostly strong, with 84% of corn acres and 79% of soybean acres rated good to excellent. These figures reflect only a slight dip from the prior week, indicating relative stability in plant health - at least for now.

Still, rising disease pressure across Iowa fields is causing concern among agronomists. Field experts from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach report continued cases of southern corn rust, sudden death syndrome, and other pests threatening yields.

Understanding Phenological Stages

• Dough stage (corn): Kernels contain a soft, dough-like substance.

• Dent stage (corn): All kernels have formed dents; ear is firm, and milk is no longer present.

• Pod-setting (soybeans): Pods are developing on lower plant sections, with blooming still present up top.

• Coloring (soybeans): Pods begin to take on mature hues, signaling the approach of harvest.

In addition to row crop progress, 97% of Iowa's oat harvest is complete, and 80% of alfalfa hay has undergone a third cutting, further signaling the harvest season's advance.

Weather played a key role last week, as Iowa farmers had nearly six days suitable for field work. Temperatures dropped into the upper 70s and low 80s later in the week, providing a respite from the previous heatwave. "Farmers across Iowa enjoyed a welcome break from the rain last week along with cooler temperatures and less humidity," said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, noting the trend is expected to continue through the rest of August.

However, the average temperature for the week was still 1.3°F above normal, said State Climatologist Justin Glisan, who called most of the period "unseasonably warm." The peak temperature was recorded in Ames at 97°F, a full 16°F above average.

On the precipitation side, northeastern Iowa recorded over 6 inches of rain, while the statewide average was 0.87 inch, just under the normal 0.93 inch.

The USDA data aligns with private crop tour projections suggesting Iowa is on track for record corn yields, despite the mix of environmental stressors and disease threats.

As harvest edges closer, Iowa producers will need to monitor disease spread carefully and stay nimble in adjusting their crop management strategies. Sustainable agriculture practices and precision tools will be key in protecting yield potential amid shifting weather and pest dynamics.