Unanticipated Corn Yields Surface in Missouri Despite the State’s Top Ranking for Poor Crop Condition

Despite battling challenging climatic conditions and having 38% of its corn in poor or very poor condition—earning it the dubious title of worst corn condition in the nation—Missouri is witnessing surprisingly resilient corn yields. Pivotal rainfall in July and advanced crop genetics have played a crucial role in partially rescuing the state’s corn, with one farmer reporting yields between 60 and 120 bushels per acre, notably better than earlier dismal expectations. Although 68 out of 114 counties bear USDA disaster designations and varying drought levels afflict the state, recent weather shifts and a 6% year-over-year increase in harvest progress indicate some mitigated agricultural distress amid persistent difficulties.