Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said that corn emergence was only 52 percent, far below the five-year average of 76 percent.

Most Midwest farmers typically have their corn crops planted by the middle of May.

With each passing day that the planting is delayed, the crop becomes more vulnerable to the upcoming hot summertime temperatures.

While many farmers have crop insurance, their policies require them to try to replant up to a certain date.

This year’s crop losses come as grain is selling at record prices due to the increased demand for corn-based ethanol.

The insurance companies are not likely to reimburse the growers at the high prices currently being paid on the open market.

Agronomists predict that consumers will be spending even more for groceries or anything that contains high fructose corn syrup.

Any meat that relies on corn as animal feed is also likely to be more expensive.

Graphic Source: National Centers for Environmental Prediction
Digg This