According to the latest USDA Crop Progress Report from September 5, 2023, Indiana's corn and soybean crops are doing well, with 66 percent rated as good to excellent. However, there's a concern that this positive outlook could change if Indiana doesn't receive enough rain before the harvest.
Rob Schuman, a Field Sales Representative from Specialty Hybrids in northeastern Indiana, stresses the importance of timely moisture for soybean yields. He explains that getting enough moisture is crucial for soybean seeds to grow properly, and if they don't get it soon, it could affect the soybean yield.
Throughout the growing season, Indiana has faced drought stress, which has caused challenges for weed control due to insufficient moisture for activating weed-killing chemicals. While July brought relief with adequate rain, dry conditions returned in mid-August.
These challenges, Schuman believes that the soybean harvest should start on time. However, the pace of the harvest may depend on how the crop develops in the coming weeks. If the quality of the corn crop is affected by disease, farmers may need to prioritize harvesting it.
Indiana's farming community is eagerly awaiting the rain they need to protect soybean yields and ensure a successful harvest season.
Photo Credit: istock-ds70
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Soybeans