Variable is a common word used to describe crop conditions in the Northern Plains this year. In northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, Pioneer territory manager Kristie Sundeen says most of the area is sitting just right on moisture. “There are a few dry pockets, but for the most part there is positivity. Most of the soybeans are around R4 stage, which makes me feel better going into September.” Moisture has been plentiful in the western half of North Dakota. Pioneer field agronomist Larry Lunder says the biggest concern for corn right now is reaching maturity. “If we had an early September frost, I’d be concerned about the soybeans, but it’s one of the better crops I’ve seen in my career.” Throughout a majority of west central Minnesota, Pioneer field agronomist Clyde Tiffany describes crop conditions as a “tale of two territories.” Crops in the north are progressing well, while the southern edge is a different story. “For some fields, we need to go frost-free well into October for them to finish.” Listen to the story.
