This information was summarized from a July 15 teleconference with ISU extension field specialists in crops. We also receive comments from independent crop consultants located throughout the state.

• Rain fell in scattered areas of Iowa; some areas have had no rain for 30 days (central and south central) and are very dry.
• A few cornfields are beginning to tassel in eastern Iowa. Statewide, some fields show unevenness. Suspected herbicide carry-over symptoms have been described in some cases. Others seem to be related to wet areas in fields that are crusted or to different tillage methods.
• Rootless corn has been observed in some fields. In some cases it does not seem to be herbicide-related and in others preemergence grass herbicides were used.
• Soybeans are starting to bloom. Postemergence herbicides are being applied and there are cases of severe burning of the plants and killing of the terminal bud. Wilting of plants from Rhizoctonia root rot has increased with increasing water stress.
• First-generation European corn borers are beginning to tunnel into the stalk. Smaller borers are still being found in the whorl. In some cases it is not too late to treat, depending on the size of the borers. Treatment is now complete in many fields that were above the economic threshold.
• Grasshoppers continue to increase in number and are prevalent throughout the state. Most are still small and are found along field edges or in the border rows.
• Second-cut hay is being made across the state. Potato leafhopper numbers are generally near or above the threshold in many alfalfa fields. Some fields are showing a yellowish tint from hopperburn.
• Oats are turning and some are being harvested for hay.