Dry conditions helped farmers in the field last week, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Iowa farmers had six days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending September 7th. 

In southeast Iowa, 99% of corn has reached the dough stage, with 86% reaching the dented stage. This is five days ahead of last year, but equal to the five-year average. Corn condition for the state rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 15% fair, 57% good and 23% excellent. Some early varieties of corn have started to turn quickly due to the dry August. 

Statewide soybeans reached 38% coloring with 10% dropping leaves, two days ahead of last year but one day behind average. Soybean condition rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 20% fair, 58% good and 18% excellent. 

The third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 88% complete in southeast Iowa. Pasture condition was rated at 71% good to excellent for the state. 

Topsoil moisture condition in southeast Iowa rated 54% adequate. Subsoil moisture condition rated 77% adequate. 

This past week’s cooler weather is expected to give way to some mid-September heat, with temperatures likely climbing back into the upper 80s and low 90s by this weekend. Listen to KCII for weather updates.