Steady Progress as Harvest Winds Down
As the first week of November begins, combines are still rolling across Maryland and southern Pennsylvania. Certified Crop Advisor, Ben Hushon of The Mill Agronomy Department joined RFD-TV’s Market Day Report to share the latest field conditions and crop progress from Whitehall, Maryland.
After a long and mostly dry harvest season, Ben estimates that around 80% of both corn and soybeans have been harvested across the region - a strong pace considering how variable the 2025 growing season began.
Dry Weather Keeps Combines Moving
A brief two-tenths of an inch of rain last week provided some moisture relief without halting harvest. “It was just enough to freshen things up,” Ben noted. “We didn’t lose any significant field time, and most growers were able to keep their combines moving.”
Soybean harvest remains on track, with most fields now cleared and moisture levels stabilizing. Corn harvest is close behind, though some late-planted fields and disease-affected acres are still testing above 20% moisture.
Yields Holding Strong Despite a Challenging Season
While early disease pressure and uneven weather caused concern through mid-summer, yields have held steady across most of the region. “It’s great to see solid performance after the season we’ve had,” Ben shared. “Despite some dry pockets and disease stress, most fields are finishing strong.”
Warm Temperatures Benefit Cover Crop Establishment
This year’s unseasonably warm start to November is creating ideal conditions for cover crop growth. Drills continue to run across Maryland fields as growers take advantage of the extended window before frost.
Cover crops are key to maintaining soil structure, nutrient retention, and erosion control through the winter months - a core practice in The Mill’s agronomic programs focused on long-term soil health and sustainability.
Fall Fertilizer and Lime Applications Underway
With fields clearing quickly and soil conditions still favorable, many operations have started fall fertilizer and lime applications. These timely passes help balance soil pH and replenish nutrients before winter dormancy, setting the stage for next spring’s planting.
Growers can review Fall Fertilizer Planning strategies and consult with their Mill Agronomist to optimize application timing and product selection based on recent yield data and soil test results.
Key Takeaways for Growers
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Corn and soybean harvests are roughly 80% complete across Maryland and southern Pennsylvania.
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Moisture remains above 20% in some late or stressed corn fields.
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Yields remain strong despite early-season challenges.
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Warm weather is supporting excellent cover crop establishment.
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Fertilizer and lime applications are progressing under ideal conditions.
Contact The Mill Agronomy Team
For region-specific crop and soil management insights, contact your local Mill Agronomist. The Mill’s Certified Crop Advisors offer professional guidance on nutrient planning, soil health, and post-harvest strategies to help prepare for the 2026 growing season.
Learn more about forage testing, soil sampling, and agronomic services at themillstores.com/agronomy.
