As the 2024 growing season progresses, recent reports from the USDA highlight a notable development in corn production across the United States. All 18 of the nation’s top corn-producing states have reached the dough stage in their corn crops, a key indicator of the crop’s maturity. However, five states are leading the pack, with their dough-stage corn significantly outpacing their five-year averages.
Among these states, Missouri has emerged as a standout performer. As of the week ending July 28, 62% of Missouri’s corn crop had reached the dough stage, a substantial increase from the 51% recorded at the same time last year. This marks a 21 percentage point improvement over the five-year average of 41%. This accelerated development reflects Missouri’s favorable growing conditions, with the USDA reporting that the state’s corn crop is currently in robust health. Missouri ranks second among top-producing states for the percentage of corn rated good-to-excellent, with 78% of its crop falling into these categories. Additionally, it holds the second spot for the highest proportion of corn rated excellent, just behind Nebraska.
The positive conditions in Missouri are attributed to a combination of favorable weather and adequate soil moisture. The average statewide temperature of 76.5°F was slightly below normal, and soil moisture levels were generally sufficient. According to USDA data, topsoil moisture was rated 1% very short, 10% short, 84% adequate, and 5% surplus, while subsoil moisture was rated 0% very short, 6% short, 92% adequate, and 2% surplus. This balance has contributed significantly to the excellent condition of the state’s corn crop.
Nebraska is also seeing impressive results. As of the same reporting period, 37% of Nebraska’s corn crop had reached the dough stage, marking a 19 percentage point increase from the previous year and a 17 percentage point rise from the five-year average. Nebraska leads the top-producing states with 27% of its corn rated as excellent. The condition ratings for Nebraska’s corn are as follows: 3% very poor, 7% poor, 16% fair, 47% good, and 27% excellent.
Travis Gustafson, an Agronomic Service Representative for Syngenta Crop Protection, has noted the impact of weather patterns on Nebraska’s crops. Despite high temperatures in the 90s, the early season rains have been beneficial, replenishing subsoil moisture and mitigating potential stress on the crops. Gustafson emphasized that while the heat is notable, it is not unusual for this time of year. The combination of timely rainfall and high temperatures has not adversely affected the corn, allowing it to progress well through the dough stage.
Overall, the progress of the corn crop in these key states demonstrates a positive trend in U.S. agriculture, bolstered by favorable growing conditions and effective moisture management. The advancements in Missouri and Nebraska are particularly noteworthy, showcasing how regional factors can drive significant improvements in crop development. As the season continues, monitoring these conditions will be crucial in assessing the final yield and quality of the nation’s corn crop.
