By Scout Nelson
Minnesota’s 2025 corn crop is currently progressing well and is slightly ahead of 2024, with 6% already silking. Warm days and cool nights create ideal conditions, especially during this critical pollination phase. Even though June was cooler, early planting helped keep the crop on track for development.
Some fields have been affected by heavy rains, causing flooding and drowned-out crop areas. Nitrogen (N) deficiency is common in these areas due to waterlogging and denitrification. If corn in lower spots shows yellowing but survived, applying supplemental N could still boost yields, especially near pothole rims. Research has shown up to 13 bushels per acre yield gain from adding N at the V14 stage.
Flooding poses serious challenges to crops. Without oxygen in the soil, roots and microbes struggle to function, sometimes resulting in plant death. Corn can survive submersion for only about two days in hot weather. Even surviving plants may have poor root growth, limiting access to water and nutrients later.
Soybeans also suffer from poor root function and nitrogen fixation under flooded conditions. Photosynthesis drops significantly within 48 hours of flooding but can recover if the plant survives, and disease is avoided.
Flooded soil can lose its structure and nutrients. Planting a cover crop helps feed microbes, reduce crusting, and support future crops. Options like oats or winter rye are good for ground cover, while sorghum-sudangrass and millet can serve as forage.
If forage is planned, nitrogen might be necessary to improve protein content. Always check herbicide labels for planting and grazing intervals before seeding. Avoid using bin-run seed to prevent introducing unwanted weeds.
As stated, “The crop that survives along the edges of drowned out areas will have significantly reduced yield potential.”
Planting a cover crop can ensure better soil and crop conditions in 2026.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-awakr10
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Sorghum, Weather