Wet Conditions Keep Combines Mostly Parked

Heavy rainfall across much of Ohio boosted soil moisture levels last week, but also slowed the pace of harvest activity in both corn and soybeans. Despite the delays, crop conditions remain strong statewide, with nearly 70% of corn and 65% of soybeans rated good to excellent. USDA reports there were 2.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Sept. 20.

Corn reaching the dent stage is at 88%, ahead of last week’s 81% average, and behind the 85% average. Mature corn for the state is sitting at 32%, above last week’s 22% but below the 43% average. Corn harvested is sitting at 2%, just below the 4% average. Ohio corn condition was rated 69% good to excellent, with 57% good and 12% excellent.

Soybeans dropping leaves has reached 40%, ahead of last week’s 24% but behind the 55% five-year average. Soybeans that have been harvested are at 1% below the 5% average. Ohio soybean condition was rated 65% good to excellent, with 52% good and 13% excellent.

Soil moisture has increased as heavy rainfall has covered most of the state, making topsoil moisture rated at 60% adequate and 38% surplus, while subsoil moisture was also 74% adequate and 20% surplus.

Click here to read the full report from USDA NASS.