North Dakota crops thrive despite frost risk

By Scout Nelson

Crop maturity in North Dakota has been delayed due to a late planting season caused by wet conditions. The USDA Crop Progress Report shows corn maturity at 15%, down from 43% last year, while soybeans are “dropping leaves” at 65%, compared to 80% last year. However, recent dry weather and high temperatures are advancing crop maturity.

North Dakota State Climatologist Daryl Ritchison predicts significant progress in crop maturity in the next report. “The big positive is that the dryness has come with warmth,” Ritchison explained, noting that the late-planted corn crop would not have matured without the warm September.

He remains hopeful that farmers can avoid frost damage in the coming days, with temperatures expected to remain warm enough to prevent a “devastating” freeze.

Last year, freezes began between September 25 and October 1. Ritchison estimates that some farmers will need until October 10 for their corn to mature. While harvesting may be delayed until November for some, this is not unusual for the area.

Interestingly, areas of lower-quality soil have seen higher-than-expected yields this year due to early-season moisture and good drainage. Farmers in typically pasture-heavy regions are reporting record soybean yields, with Ritchison hearing positive reports from central North Dakota.

Despite the drought in western North Dakota, which has primarily affected ranchers, the overall impact on crop production has been less severe than in past years. Ranchers have faced challenges, including reduced hay cuts, but overall, “it wasn’t a devastating year,” Ritchison said, comparing it to harsher drought years like 2021 and 2017.

Photo Credit: usda