In summary: The episode covers current severe storm risk, a warm/wet outlook, lingering (but mostly localized) frost potential, and advice for growers on weather impacts, pest and seedling management, and fieldwork timing. There's a focus on using sound data (not just forecasts) for planting decisions, and corrections on frost hardiness for strawberry crops. Weather Recap & Outlook The hosts recall a historic severe weather event: an F3 tornado in Van Buren County on April 16th, 1967. For the current day (April 17, 2025), the main severe weather threat is large hail (1–2+ inches), especially from Omaha through Des Moines and Ames; tornado risk is low due to low dew points. Forecast: Severe storms possible overnight. Friday and Saturday expected to be pleasant, with more rain chances from Saturday night into Sunday. Rainfall of 0.75–1.25 inches possible across the state. Eastern Iowa, especially between Waterloo and Cedar Rapids (D1 drought area), is currently receiving needed rain. The 6–10 and 8–14 day forecasts show a warm and wet signal, especially in southwestern Iowa. The month-ahead and seasonal outlooks are less certain, with possible slightly increased warmth and dryness moving into early summer. Frost & Soil Temperature Despite a strong signal for above-normal temperatures, the last frost of the season may not have occurred yet, especially in central and northern Iowa. Widespread frost is unlikely, but localized events could still occur, especially in valleys or low-lying, dry areas. Soil temperatures are fluctuating widely due to dry soils, with values expected mostly in the low/mid 60s to mid 40s over coming weeks. Some forecasts show soil temps as low as 42°F in northern Iowa by early May. Growers are advised not to rush warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers into the field before mid-May or early June, due to risk of cold soil and air temperatures. Recent Weather, Climate Notables & Grower Reports It's been windier than usual, which is notable particularly in northwest Iowa. Cloud cover and cooler temps have persisted in eastern Iowa, verified by grower feedback. Accumulation of growing degree days is ahead of normal, prompting early alfalfa weevil egg hatch in southern Iowa. Some growers are experimenting with blackening cover crops to encourage warmer soils for earlier sweet corn, but cloudy weather has limited the benefits. Pest & Seedling Updates Problems with bean germination in greenhouse trays may be linked to seed maggots and/or sensitive response to high nutrient salt levels in potting media. Microclimate and possible ammonia burn are additional considerations. Growers are advised to bioassay suspect potting media using sensitive crops like beans and peas. Strawberry Correction & Field Work The host corrects a previous statement: Strawberry flower buds are hardy to 20°F; open blossoms are damaged in the high 20s. With wetter weather on the horizon, growers are encouraged to finish field prep and tillage now, before rain delays field access and results in transplants outgrowing their cells.   *Podcast transcript and summary provided using AI

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