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Minnesota crop condition ratings among highest in Midwest

Crop condition ratings for Minnesota continue to hover well above most Midwestern states.

The USDA says 88 percent of corn is in good to excellent condition, and 83 percent of soybeans are good to excellent.

Southwest Minnesota farmer Matt Widboom says crop development is all over after planting delays this spring.

“We’re in all degrees of growing stages with the growing season being very drawn-out, from over knee-high corn to ankle-high corn within the same section.  And soybeans are all over the board as well.”

The Nobles County corn and soybean grower also raises cattle and tells Brownfield the first cutting of alfalfa went smoothly.

“It only got 1 inch of rain on it, and we got it bailed up.  And the next crop is looking good.  We planted 40 acres of oats this year and that is really enjoying the wet and warm weather as well.”

Statewide, the first cutting of alfalfa is almost 70 percent complete, with all hay condition ratings near 80 percent good to excellent.