Iowa Corn: 87% Silking as of July 26, 2026
87% of Iowa's corn crop has reached the silking stage
What changed
The latest USDA NASS Crop Progress report, covering the week ending July 26, puts Iowa corn silking at 87%. Silking marks the point when ears are actively pollinating — the single most yield-sensitive period in the corn plant's life cycle.
Why it matters
With 87% of the crop silking, most of Iowa's corn is squarely in the reproductive phase. Conditions during this window — heat, moisture, and stress — have an outsized effect on final kernel set and yield potential. Any stretch of extreme heat or drought stress over the next couple of weeks could affect pollination success for a large share of the crop. Conversely, adequate moisture and moderate temperatures during this period tend to support strong kernel counts.
What to watch next
- Weather forecasts through early August. Daytime highs above 95°F and dry conditions during active pollination are worth watching closely.
- Next week's Crop Progress report. The silking percentage will likely climb further, and USDA will begin reporting dough-stage progress, giving a clearer picture of how pollination went.
- Crop condition ratings. Week-to-week changes in the good-to-excellent category could signal whether pollination stress is showing up at the state level.
Source notes
- USDA NASS Quick Stats — Iowa corn progress, week ending July 26, 2026. View data
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