La Salle County farmers regularly publish the summer crop and rainfall report, offering updates on crop conditions and precipitation.
This is the seventh report of the summer, covering July 3 to July 9, and is supported by the La Salle County Farm Bureau.
David Hall from Serena reported that the crops have significantly improved due to 2.1 inches of rain received during the reporting week, which came from a mix of a violent storm and a gentle shower.
Thankfully, there was no hail, and the wind didn’t harm the corn. Currently, the corn is tasseling, but consistent rains during pollination and grain filling are crucial for achieving average yields. Soybeans are growing well and shading 30-inch rows.
Other activities in the area included the second cutting of hay, ditches mowing, completing soybean spraying, and preparing for the fair season. Wishing everyone a safe week ahead!
According to Ken Beck from Mendota, the northwest part of the county received 0.5 inches of rain. Overall, the situation is quite promising, and recent rains have significantly advanced crop growth.
Some corn fields are already tasseling, while others are close to reaching that stage. The progress has been better than expected, and the crops are showing remarkable growth.
David Myer from Marseilles shared his gratitude for receiving 1.25 inches of rain in the past week. The rain brought new life to the corn, and the beans grew significantly in just a short time. While this weather is beneficial for corn and soybean farmers, it poses challenges for livestock farmers trying to cut and bale hay or harvest crops.
The wheat harvest was completed despite the moisture, although yields were slightly lower compared to the past couple of years. Surprisingly, it fared better than expected considering the limited rainfall in late May and June. As corn tassels emerge, there is anticipation to assess the impact of the drought on ear size. David welcomes more rain to replenish the soils.
Bill Gray from Tonica/Lostant reported receiving 1.1 inches of rain last week. As a result, the corn fields have grown taller and are now starting to tassel. They are closely monitoring the fields for potential issues such as insect pests and diseases.
Plans are in place to apply fungicide on some fields using planes. The soybean fields are also looking promising, with a minor herbicide spraying to manage weed escapes. Although they are keeping an eye on Japanese Beetle feeding on leaves, it hasn’t caused significant damage so far.
Wheat harvest has begun, and soon the straw will be baled. To control weeds, roadside ditches and waterways are being mowed. Wishing everyone a good week ahead and to stay safe.
Ken Bernard from Grand Ridge shared that they received 0.75 inches of rain in the past week, and it has significantly improved the overall outlook. The grass is now lush and green, and all the yards have been mowed again.
However, with the moisture, weeds are starting to appear in the bean fields. The corn is tasseling and entering the pollination phase, which is benefiting from the recent cool weather. Despite this positive development, they still require timely rains to ensure a successful harvest.
There is still much work ahead, with more second crop hay to cut and bale. Wheat harvesting has already taken place, with straw baled.
The next task is to spray fungicide on the corn and beans, but the decision will depend on the crop scouts’ assessment of its necessity and cost-effectiveness. Wishing everyone a great time at the La Salle County 4-H Fair.
Geoffrey Janssen from Rutland reported that the corn is rapidly progressing, with tassels appearing daily. The first planted corn is almost fully tasseled, and pollen is now in the air. Recent rains have contributed to the corn’s increased height.
Soybeans are also thriving, becoming taller and bushier each day. Some areas are undergoing respraying to manage weed growth after the abundant rainfall. Yards, road ditches, and waterways are being mowed again as they finally regain their greenness after an extended dry spell. Since the last report, it received 1.9 inches of rain.
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