Iowa’s agricultural reputation rests on one dominant crop, but secondary options also offer strong returns. When you’re looking for the best cash crops to grow in iowa, you might think of corn and soybeans first, but there are other profitable choices worth considering. This guide breaks down the top crops that can boost your farm’s income, with practical tips for each one.
Whether you have a small farm or large acreage, diversifying your crop mix can spread risk and increase profits. Let’s look at the options that work best in Iowa’s climate and soil.
Best Cash Crops To Grow In Iowa
Iowa’s fertile soil and moderate rainfall make it ideal for many crops. The state’s growing season ranges from 140 to 170 days, depending on your location. This gives you plenty of options beyond the usual corn and soybeans.
Here are the top cash crops that perform well in Iowa, ranked by profitability and demand.
Corn
Corn remains the king of Iowa cash crops. It’s the most planted crop in the state, with over 13 million acres harvested annually. The average yield is around 200 bushels per acre, though top farmers can reach 250 or more.
Why corn works so well in Iowa:
- Deep, rich topsoil holds moisture well
- Warm summers with adequate rainfall
- Strong local demand from ethanol plants and livestock feed
- Established infrastructure for storage and transport
You’ll need to invest in quality seed, fertilizer, and pest control. But the returns can be solid, especially when commodity prices are high. Consider planting corn after soybeans to rotate nutrients and reduce disease pressure.
Soybeans
Soybeans are the second most common cash crop in Iowa. They fix nitrogen in the soil, which helps reduce fertilizer costs for the next crop. Average yields range from 50 to 70 bushels per acre.
Key advantages of soybeans:
- Lower input costs compared to corn
- Strong export demand, especially to China
- Works well in rotation with corn
- Can be planted in narrower rows for higher yields
You should plant soybeans in well-drained fields to avoid root rot. They also need adequate sulfur and potassium for optimal growth. Check your soil test results before planting.
Oats
Oats are a great alternative cash crop for Iowa farmers. They mature quickly, usually in 60 to 70 days, which lets you harvest early and plant a cover crop. Oats also have good demand from the livestock feed and human food markets.
Benefits of growing oats:
- Low input costs
- Short growing season reduces risk of drought damage
- Can be used as a nurse crop for alfalfa or clover
- Good straw yield for bedding or erosion control
You can expect yields of 80 to 120 bushels per acre. Plant oats in early spring as soon as the ground is workable. They prefer cool, moist conditions.
Winter Wheat
Winter wheat is a dual-purpose crop that provides both grain and straw. It’s planted in the fall, goes dormant over winter, and matures in early summer. This gives you a harvest window before corn and soybeans.
Why winter wheat works in Iowa:
- Provides soil cover during winter, reducing erosion
- Can be double-cropped with soybeans in southern Iowa
- Good demand for milling and livestock feed
- Straw can be sold for bedding or mulch
Yields typically range from 50 to 80 bushels per acre. You’ll need to plant by mid-October for best results. Choose varieties with good winter hardiness and disease resistance.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a high-value forage crop that’s perfect for Iowa’s dairy and beef operations. It’s a perennial that can produce for three to five years with proper management. The hay market is strong, especially for high-quality, weed-free alfalfa.
Key points for alfalfa:
- Requires well-drained soil with neutral pH
- Can yield 4 to 6 tons per acre per year
- Needs regular cutting every 28 to 35 days
- High protein content makes it valuable for livestock
You’ll need to invest in good seed and proper fertilization. Alfalfa also benefits from inoculation with rhizobium bacteria for nitrogen fixation.
Canola
Canola is a emerging cash crop in Iowa, especially for farmers looking to diversify. It produces oil for cooking and biodiesel, plus meal for livestock feed. The crop has good cold tolerance and can be planted in early spring.
Advantages of canola:
- High oil content (40-45%)
- Short growing season (85-100 days)
- Good rotation crop for breaking pest cycles
- Strong demand from the renewable fuel industry
Yields average 1,500 to 2,500 pounds per acre. You’ll need to manage weeds carefully, as canola is not competitive early in the season. Consider using herbicides labeled for canola.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a niche cash crop that can bring premium prices in Iowa. They’re drought-tolerant and can be grown on marginal land. The seeds are used for bird feed, snacks, and oil production.
Benefits of sunflowers:
- Low water requirements
- Can be planted in late spring after frost danger passes
- Attract pollinators and beneficial insects
- High market prices for confectionery varieties
You can expect yields of 1,500 to 2,500 pounds per acre. Plant sunflowers in rows 30 inches apart for best results. Watch for birds that may eat the seeds as they mature.
Grain Sorghum
Grain sorghum, also called milo, is a drought-tolerant crop that works well in Iowa’s southern counties. It’s used primarily for livestock feed and ethanol production. The crop has similar nutrient requirements to corn but uses less water.
Key features of grain sorghum:
- Excellent drought tolerance
- Lower input costs than corn
- Good yields in hot, dry summers
- Strong demand from feedlots and ethanol plants
Yields range from 80 to 120 bushels per acre. Plant sorghum in late May or early June when soil temperatures reach 65°F. It’s also a good option for fields with variable soil types.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a specialty cash crop that can fetch high prices in Iowa. It requires specific varieties and careful harvesting to avoid kernel damage. The market is steady, with demand from snack food companies and home consumers.
Why popcorn works:
- Higher value per acre than field corn
- Long storage life if dried properly
- Can be sold directly to processors or through cooperatives
- Requires similar management to field corn
Yields average 3,000 to 5,000 pounds per acre. You’ll need to harvest at the right moisture content (13-14%) to prevent kernel damage. Consider contracts with processors before planting.
Edible Beans
Edible beans, such as pinto, navy, and black beans, are a niche cash crop with good profit potential. They’re grown primarily in western Iowa and require careful management. The market is driven by demand for canned and dried beans.
Key points for edible beans:
- High protein content
- Can be grown on lighter soils
- Short growing season (85-100 days)
- Good rotation crop for corn and soybeans
Yields range from 1,500 to 2,500 pounds per acre. You’ll need to control weeds early, as beans are slow to canopy. Harvest when pods are dry and seeds are hard.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Cash Crops
Before you decide which crops to plant, consider these key factors. They’ll help you maximize profits and reduce risk.
Soil Type And Fertility
Iowa has diverse soil types, from heavy clay in the north to sandy loam in the south. Test your soil every three years to know nutrient levels. Corn and soybeans need high fertility, while oats and sorghum can handle poorer soils.
Key soil considerations:
- pH level: Most crops prefer 6.0 to 7.0
- Organic matter: Higher organic matter means better water holding capacity
- Drainage: Alfalfa and soybeans need well-drained fields
- Compaction: Avoid planting deep-rooted crops in compacted soil
Climate And Growing Season
Iowa’s climate varies from north to south. Northern Iowa has a shorter growing season, while southern Iowa gets more heat units. Choose crops that match your region’s conditions.
Growing season averages:
- Northern Iowa: 140-150 days
- Central Iowa: 150-160 days
- Southern Iowa: 160-170 days
For short-season areas, consider oats, winter wheat, or canola. For longer seasons, corn and soybeans are safe bets.
Market Demand And Prices
Always check market prices before planting. Some crops have volatile prices, while others offer stable returns. Talk to local grain elevators and processors to understand demand.
Market tips:
- Corn and soybeans have futures markets for hedging
- Specialty crops like popcorn and edible beans often have contracts
- Alfalfa hay prices vary by quality and location
- Consider direct sales to local livestock operations
Input Costs And Profit Margins
Calculate your costs before planting. Corn has high input costs for seed, fertilizer, and pesticides. Oats and sorghum have lower costs but also lower yields. Compare profit margins per acre to make informed decisions.
Example cost comparison (per acre):
- Corn: $600-800 in inputs, potential $800-1,200 in revenue
- Soybeans: $300-400 in inputs, potential $500-700 in revenue
- Oats: $150-250 in inputs, potential $300-400 in revenue
- Alfalfa: $200-300 in inputs, potential $500-800 in revenue
Rotation Benefits
Rotating crops improves soil health and reduces pest pressure. A common rotation is corn-soybeans, but adding a third crop like oats or wheat can break disease cycles.
Benefits of rotation:
- Reduces nitrogen fertilizer needs
- Controls weeds and diseases
- Improves soil structure
- Spreads labor and equipment use
Step-By-Step Guide To Starting A New Cash Crop
If you’re new to a crop, follow these steps to minimize risk and maximize success.
- Research the crop – Learn about its growing requirements, pest issues, and market potential. Talk to extension agents and experienced farmers.
- Test your soil – Take soil samples to check pH, nutrients, and organic matter. Amend as needed before planting.
- Select the right variety – Choose varieties adapted to Iowa’s climate. Look for disease resistance and high yield potential.
- Prepare the seedbed – Till or no-till based on your system. Ensure good seed-to-soil contact for uniform germination.
- Plant at the right time – Follow recommended planting dates for your region. Use a planter calibrated for the seed size.
- Manage weeds and pests – Scout fields regularly. Use integrated pest management to reduce chemical use.
- Harvest at the right time – Monitor moisture content and maturity. Harvest promptly to avoid losses from weather or wildlife.
- Store and market – Dry grain to safe moisture levels. Store in clean, pest-free bins. Sell when prices are favorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Most Profitable Cash Crops In Iowa?
Corn and soybeans are the most profitable due to high yields and strong markets. However, specialty crops like popcorn, edible beans, and alfalfa can offer higher per-acre returns if you have the right market access.
Can I Grow Hemp As A Cash Crop In Iowa?
Yes, industrial hemp is legal in Iowa, but it requires a license from the state. It’s a high-risk crop due to regulatory requirements and limited processing infrastructure. Start small if you try it.
What Is The Best Cash Crop For Small Farms In Iowa?
For small farms, consider high-value crops like specialty vegetables, cut flowers, or herbs. These require more labor but can yield high returns per acre. Alfalfa and oats are also good options for small acreage.
How Do I Choose Between Corn And Soybeans?
Consider your soil type, rotation history, and market prices. Corn needs more nitrogen and has higher input costs. Soybeans fix nitrogen and are cheaper to grow. Rotate them for best results.
What Cash Crops Require The Least Maintenance?
Oats and winter wheat are low-maintenance options. They have fewer pest problems and lower input costs. However, they also have lower profit potential than corn or soybeans.
Final Thoughts On Iowa Cash Crops
Choosing the best cash crops to grow in iowa depends on your farm’s specific conditions. Start with crops you know, then experiment with one or two new options each year. Diversification reduces risk and can increase overall profitability.
Remember to stay informed about market trends and new varieties. Attend field days and talk to other farmers. With careful planning, you can build a successful and sustainable farming operation in Iowa.
Whether you stick with corn and soybeans or try something new, Iowa’s rich soil and favorable climate give you many options. Focus on what works for your land, your budget, and your goals.