By Andi Anderson
The first week of September marks the beginning of corn harvest in many farming regions. Area grain elevators have started offering reduced drying charges for high-moisture corn, encouraging some farmers to begin harvesting earlier.
According to Doug Gucker, Extension Commercial Agriculture Educator in East Central Illinois, crop conditions have been affected by highly uneven rainfall patterns during the growing season.
Some months received much more rainfall than normal, while others were significantly drier. These changing weather conditions placed stress on corn root systems and affected certain hybrids more than others.
As a result, farmers are seeing higher-than-normal levels of root, crown, and lower stem diseases in some corn fields. Samples submitted to the University of Illinois Plant Clinic revealed the presence of Rhizoctonia crown and stem rot, along with Pythium root and crown rot. These diseases can weaken plants and reduce stalk strength, creating concerns as harvest progresses.
Corn ear development has also varied noticeably within fields. Ear sizes differ from plant to plant, reflecting the uneven growing conditions experienced throughout the season. In many early-planted, mid-season hybrids, crop maturity is advancing quickly.
The milk line is nearing the kernel tip, and black layer formation is occurring around or before Labor Day, signaling that harvest readiness is approaching.
Another concern is corn stalk quality. Field tests have shown mixed results, with some areas reporting strong stalks while others have experienced severe lodging risks. These conditions may require farmers to prioritize weaker fields during harvest to reduce potential yield losses.
Soybean crops are also advancing toward harvest. Early-maturing soybean fields have reached the R8 full maturity stage, while most other fields are at the R7 beginning maturity stage. This indicates that soybean harvest may begin in several areas soon after corn harvest gains momentum.
Beyond crop production, changes are occurring across the agricultural landscape. Approximately 2,400 acres of solar farm projects are currently under construction or scheduled for development during 2027. These projects represent a growing shift in land use across some farming communities.
Economic reports also point to changing conditions for farmland owners and operators. A mid-year survey conducted by the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers suggested that cash rental rates for 2027 could decline by $3 to $5 per acre across average, good, and excellent farmland categories. Farmland values also showed modest declines during the first half of 2026.
Looking ahead, University of Illinois farm economists estimate 2027 breakeven prices at $4.90 per bushel for corn and $11.10 per bushel for soybeans. Updated projections are expected later in the year.
As harvest activities increase, farmers are encouraged to take regular breaks and maintain healthy eating habits during long workdays. As Doug Gucker reminds growers, "it is profit per acre, not yield per acre, that keeps you in the farming business."
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn, Harvesting