Several days of rain last week cut into the productivity of Iowa farmers, but as a whole this year’s crops are still well ahead of schedule.

The United States Department of Agriculture found there were 2.7 days suitable for fieldwork in the final week of May, but the warmer temperatures advanced crop development around the state. In their weekly crop condition update, the USDA also reported that farmers have planted 98% of the expected corn crop, which is two weeks ahead of last year and one week ahead of the five-year average. Corn emergence was at 93%, almost three weeks ahead of last year and 10 days ahead of the average, and the condition was rated 85% good to excellent.

As for the soybean crop, 95% has been planted, which is three weeks ahead of last year and two weeks ahead of average. Of the planted beans, 76% has emerged – which is also three weeks ahead of last year and 11 days ahead of average – and 81% of the crop is rated good to excellent. Other reports included: 98% of the oat crop has emerged and is rated 83% good to excellent; alfalfa cutting is already 16% completed; hay condition rated 74% good to excellent; and pasture condition improved to 66% good to excellent.