Kansas Corn And Soybeans Face Water Threat

By Scout Nelson

Recent steady rains across Kansas in late May brought much-needed moisture to support the state’s crops, offering hope for improved yields, especially wheat. However, crop experts are warning that too much water can lead to new challenges for producers.

Rain plays a vital role in agriculture. The recent rainfall helped refill livestock ponds and offered a timely boost for wheat, raising hopes of better harvests this year. Still, excess water is raising concerns for other crops, especially corn and soybeans.

Kansas State University agronomist Tina Sullivan explained that corn at the V5 growth stage—when the plant is 8-12 inches tall—remains partly protected underground. “It still has some protection below ground,” Sullivan said. However, extended waterlogging can harm root systems and reduce yield.

She noted, “Saturated soils and standing water can be a concern to corn.” Prolonged exposure to water can suffocate roots, prevent oxygen uptake, and lead to diseases.

Soybeans are also sensitive to excess water. Sullivan said they can tolerate being submerged for a short time, but cold and wet conditions increase the chances of diseases such as Pythium root rot. Warmer conditions may lead to Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia root roots.

“Seed treatments offer protection, but after a couple weeks of submerged or constantly saturated soils, the protection is no longer effective,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan advised checking soybeans once water recedes. “Healthy growing points will be firm, white or cream-colored,” she said. “A soft, dark spot indicates injury within that plant.”

Sullivan also participated in Kansas’s annual wheat tour and reported that experts predict average yields of 40–45 bushels per acre. “Throughout the state, we’ve seen a good amount of rain,” she said. “Is that going to really make the wheat yield? We’ll have to wait and see.”

Farmers are encouraged to monitor fields closely and reach out to their local extension offices for help diagnosing crop issues.

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