It’s been one of those Iowa harvests that went smoothly overall, but it gave us a clear look at any shortcomings we had this year. Early planting conditions looked ideal, but as the summer wore on, humidity, storms, and disease pressures really started to challenge fields across the state. Now that the combines are wrapping up, it’s time to take a step back and look at what we learned this year and how we can build a stronger plan heading into 2026.
FEATURED CONVERSATION WITH JIM MCDERMOTT:
Across northwest Iowa, Dekalb and Asgrow Technical Agronomist Jim McDermott says the season was full of contrasts. Fields that looked picture-perfect in early June had a very different story by late July, as changing weather patterns and disease pressure shaped the final outcome. McDermott says it was a reminder that even when things start right, conditions can turn quickly, and that’s where good agronomic decisions really start to pay off.
That sudden shift in weather also created the perfect setup for one of the biggest problems farmers faced this year. Southern rust showed up across much of the region and served as a strong reminder of how quickly disease can move when conditions line up just right.
McDermott says it’s not about chasing every threat, but about being ready with solid scouting and management plans. He adds that hybrid selection also played a major role in how well certain fields held up as the growing season turned the corner toward fall.
Looking ahead to 2026, McDermott says farmers should focus on spreading maturities to manage risk and look for hybrids that fit their specific fields. He points to new Dekalb products that performed well this year, along with innovations that are already showing promise for the future.
McDermott says that kind of research continues to drive new opportunities for farmers to protect yield potential and build flexibility into their operations.
Producers can learn more by visiting Dekalb.com or by talking with their local Dekalb and Asgrow dealers.
