Have patience: Weather delays add pressure, but crop potential remains
May 2026Unseasonably cool, wet weather has pushed back planting timelines in parts of the northern and eastern Corn Belt. For growers watching crop insurance deadlines loom, that’s an unsettling combination. For those who already have corn and soybeans in the ground, roller-coaster weather patterns may raise concerns about germination or crusting that could limit emergence. Replanting may even be on their minds. While there’s still reason for optimism, patience is essential.
“Many growers have their crop in the ground, but for those still waiting on saturated soils to dry up, I advise not rushing the process,” says Tom Larson, Stine® Seed Company’s director of agronomy. “There’s still time to plant your current corn and soybean products. Stick to the original plan, and if you decide replanting may be necessary, talk to your local Stine sales rep first before determining next steps.”
He adds that farmers should take an analytical approach to late planting or replant decisions and leave emotions on the back burner.
“It seems like every year, there’s more of a push to condense the planting window, and we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to get it done within that time frame,” says Larson. “I understand the anxiety that comes with this time of year, but it’s important to level-set and think objectively about what you should be doing. You only get one chance to do it right.”
Take time to assess the situation
Smart agronomic decisions are critical this time of year, especially before bringing heavy equipment into the field. For example, if crusting is a problem, growers may be tempted to run a rotary hoe to break up the ground and help seedlings emerge. However, in wet clay soils, that can often make the issue worse.
“Don’t put yourself in a win-or-lose situation. Sometimes emotions take over, and we make quick decisions we regret later. Mechanical tools can help break up crusted soil, but they can also damage plants. In some cases, the best approach is to be patient and let Mother Nature take its course.”
Tom Larson, Stine director of agronomy
If corn and soybeans are in the ground but you suspect something is off with germination, Larson recommends starting with a simple check: digging plants by hand.
“You won’t know what’s going on until you get in the ground and see if there’s a problem,” he says. “I recommend taking random samples from the field at 1/1,000 of an acre. For example, if you’re in 30-inch rows, take a sample every 17.5 feet.”
Seedbeds should show consistent spacing to maximize yield potential. If spacing issues are evident, consider the underlying cause. For example, if it was a mechanical problem with your planter and you’re considering replanting, repairs will be necessary to ensure proper seed-to-soil contact on the second pass.
For emerged crops, Larson stresses the importance of evaluating stand counts and plant health.
“One thing I tell growers is to scout for any frost damage or noticeable issues with stand counts,” says Larson. “If you have frost issues, there’s still time to see how that plant responds. Give it a little time to see if the crop works out the kinks on its own. Since corn’s growing point is below ground, frost may make the plant look a bit off at first, but if you have patience, it’s possible the crop recovers on its own.”
Stand uniformity plays a key role in yield potential. Populations may still be adequate even if spacing appears uneven. However, if stands are highly uneven and population becomes a concern, replanting may be the best next step.
“For corn, we typically recommend replanting if there’s 30% stand loss or greater. Ideally, replanting should take place within four weeks of your initial planting date.”
Tom Larson, Stine director of agronomy
For soybeans, experts from the University of Iowa Extension and Outreach recommend considering replanting, or thickening, if the uniform stands are below 75,000 plants per acre if planted before mid-May or below 50,000–60,000 plants per acre if planted in late May or June.
Stick to the product or close to it
If a late planting date or replanting is a concern, growers may feel the need to switch to a different maturity product. However, Larson advises them to pause, remove emotion from the decision, and consult with their local agronomist or seed sales rep.
“In most cases, there’s not necessarily a need to switch away from your full-season products,” he says. “Just because it’s getting later in the season and insurance deadlines are getting closer, you don’t want to act on a whim and switch up the product just yet. Doing so may risk yield potential.”
Larson adds that switching hybrids or varieties will likely delay herbicide applications, which can affect your crop the following year.
“Switching to a different hybrid or variety will affect your application timing,” he says. “Delayed applications can lead to herbicide carryover the following year, which can be a concern in a crop rotation year. Consider how that chemistry will impact next year’s crop if you switch products.”
If a switch is made, Larson recommends staying as close as possible to the original maturity to avoid running the risk of the crop not maturing before harvest.
He also cautions that, in some instances, product availability may be limited.
“This time of year, inventory is tight, so your first choice for replanting may be in low supply, or it might not even be an option,” says Larson.
Weighing costs versus benefits
If replanting or switching products is a serious consideration, Larson recommends doing the math first.
“Does the potential yield loss outweigh the costs of switching hybrids or varieties, factoring in extra fuel, additional field hours, increased equipment wear, maintenance and labor?” he notes. “There are always risks to replanting, which is why we strongly recommend consulting with a local agronomist or seed expert before making a final decision.”
If the numbers don’t add up, remember to have a little patience.
“I like to advise growers to do the best we can with the first try. Remember that late-planted soybeans have some forgiveness. And corn, let’s just really give it time to see what Mother Nature can do.”
Tom Larson, Stine director of agronomy
For support with agronomic decision-making throughout the season, contact your local Stine sales rep. We’re available year-round to ensure you get the most out of your seed investment.