Crops Confront Summer 2025's Harsh Weather Conditions

Crops have faced a variety of weather challenges in 2025, including an overabundance of spring, hot and humid weather, and frequent downpours. Farmer Adam Freyn noted that "You pretty much got about a 5% control on what you do."

Freyn and his dad own Pardieck & Son Farms in Columbus, which they've operated since 1990. They've expanded from 80 acres to 1500 acres over the years.

While corn and beans seem to be doing well, pumpkins and watermelons have been more impacted. Freyn shared that excessive rain has washed nitrogen out of the soil, affecting pumpkin growth.

Agronomist Tim Cooke with Core Ag Solutions works with hundreds of farms, helping them determine soil health and nutrients. He noted that many farmers are struggling with potassium in their soil.

Cooke's job involves trial and error to find effective solutions. He recommended using liquid potassium forms and noted that row crops were planted later this year due to rainy spring days.

Freyn is concerned about disease pressure from the heat, so they spray fungicides regularly. The rain has made it challenging, requiring them to use a drone to apply fungicide in some areas.

"Last year was a tremendously good year for us," Freyn shared, "but this year is definitely not going to be as good as it has been in the past." He remains optimistic about breaking even.

Cooke emphasized that farmers need to remain vigilant and scout their fields regularly, especially for tar spots. "This is a time to get out and scout every day if you can," he advised.

"Hopefully, we just have a good harvest," Freyn said, despite the challenges. Pardieck & Son still has plenty of watermelons and sweet corn to supply.

Crops are facing unprecedented challenges as they confront summer 2025's harsh weather conditions. Extreme heatwaves, droughts, and floods have become the new norm, impacting crop yields and food security.

"The current situation is a wake-up call for us all," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading agricultural expert. "We need to take immediate action to adapt our farming practices and protect our crops from these extreme weather events."

Farmers are struggling to cope with the unpredictable weather patterns, which have resulted in crop failures and losses. The situation is particularly dire for small-scale farmers who lack the resources to implement climate-resilient farming techniques.