Growers posting Feedback From The Field last week noted overall stable conditions for corn and soybeans. But at the same time their assessment of yield potential was lower as slow development and a drying trend take a toll on crops.

Average yield estimates so far remain below forecasts churned out by other methods, including USDA’s weekly ratings, key state weather and satellite maps. Growers last week rated corn a little lower and soybeans a little higher, but both were below average.

A producer in eastern Kansas projecting just 25-bushel soybeans and 75-bushel corn said many fields were stunted, even after side dressing, and now face drought. “Still short, poor color and trying to put on a very small ear,” was the assessment. “Beans have a terrible long way to go yet, planted so late.”

Many comments last week focused on lack of rainfall in July, after many were inundated in the spring.

“Have not had rain in a month,” said a farmer in a corner of western Illinois receiving little precipitation, hoping for yields of 160 bpa corn and 45 bpa soybeans.

“Have not had a rain event over .26 of an inch since the middle of June,” was the report from northwest Kansas.  “Five days of 102 degrees plus 15-30 mph winds on those days.  Most other days around 95 degrees.  Scalded corn.”

In parts of the eastern Midwest farmers can only shake their heads at the challenges faced by their crops.

“After being excessively wet for the past 8 months, we have now gone the other way,” reported a farmer in northwest Ohio. “What few crops we did get planted are now under stress from being too dry. Crops that were planted when it was too wet are really showing the stress even more. Yield prospects for this area are not good.”

“Can’t wait for this nightmare of a growing season to be over.”

And in northern Indiana varied conditions were helped by timely rains but corn is vulnerable to even a normal frost while soybeans are short.

“Only God knows where we finish,” was the comment. “Lots can happen to let us skate or get even bloodier. Say your prayers!”

How are your crops faring this year? What are your early hopes for yields? We’re asking growers about what’s really happening in their fields. Click the Feedback From The Field reporting form and give us your first-hand account on conditions and yields.

Source: Bryce Knorr, Farm Futures