Condition ratings for corn and soybeans remain virtually unchanged after a relatively cool and dry week, according to Greg Matli, Indiana State Statistician for the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The statewide average temperature was 68.2 degrees, 4.2 degrees below normal. Statewide precipitation was 0.65 inches, below average by 0.03 inches. There were 6.0 days available for fieldwork for the week ending August 27, 0.3 days fewer than the previous week.
Regionally, corn was 89% in dough in the North, 89% in Central, and 91% in the South. Corn was 53% dented in the North, 48% in Central, and 63% in the South. Corn rated in good to excellent condition was 55% in the North, 49% in Central, and 52% in the South. Soybeans were 94% setting pods in the North, 95% in Central, and 91% in the South. Soybeans were 1% dropping leaves in the North, 8% in Central, and 6% in the South. Soybeans rated in good to excellent condition were 58% in the North, 51% in Central, and 50% in the South.
Benton County received the most rainfall by far, with surrounding counties receiving significant amounts as well. Most of the remaining parts of the state received very little rain. A portion of the state stretching from Warren County to Monroe County, as well as most of Elkhart and LaGrange Counties, is classified as abnormally dry by the U.S. Drought Monitor. Pasture conditions declined, but growers had ample opportunity to harvest forages. Growers continued to keep watch for rust in corn as well as ear and stalk rot.
Harvest continued for potatoes, processing tomatoes, and mint. There were also reports that some growers have begun harvest of corn.