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Dry end to season brings corn crop worries

A dry end to the growing season has some in the industry concerned about the actual size of the corn crop.

Justin Skinner sells seed in central Illinois with Beck’s Hybrids.

“Overnight temps were the hottest on record since we’ve been keeping track for June and July, so that’s pushed the growing cycle really fast this year.”  He says, “The kernel counts are really good, but I’m a little concerned with the kernel depth this year.”

AUDIO: Justin Skinner – Beck’s Hybrids

Chris Heller, a Channel Seed pro in eastern Illinois, says a dry August hasn’t helped.

“We’ve watched a beautiful crop erode due to dry conditions.”  He says, “I still think this corn crop can be good, but I think we’re far from great.  The heat with no moisture really baked this crop.  Kernel count is good, but we’re going to give up yield on kernel weight.”

AUDIO: Chris Heller – Channel Seed

Agronomist Ian Matzenbacher covers the state for Stine Seed, and tells Brownfield…

“I’ve noticed a lot of tip back across the state.”  He says, “We’re going to get a lot of shrink on our kernel size and stuff like that, so we might have a big issue with test weight.”

AUDIO: Ian Matzenbacher – Stine Seed

All three say late-season disease pressure from widespread southern rust will also likely impact this season’s corn yields.

Brownfield spoke with all three during the 2025 Farm Progress Show.