Weather extremes across Illinois are beginning to affect crop conditions, with too much rain in the south and drought conditions in the north. These challenges are evident in the latest USDA crop progress report, which shows Illinois crop ratings trailing the national average.
Nationwide, 74% of corn and 66% of soybeans were rated in good to excellent condition. In contrast, Illinois reported just 68% of its corn crop and a similarly lower percentage of its soybean crop in good to excellent shape.
The USDA’s most recent report, released Monday, reflects data for the week ending July 6. Illinois had 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork during that week. The statewide average temperature was 78.7 degrees—3.9 degrees above normal—while precipitation averaged 0.56 inches, which is 0.38 inches below normal.
Topsoil moisture levels were rated at 5% very short, 38% short, 52% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture was reported at 5% very short, 33% short, 56% adequate, and 6% surplus.
As for crop development:
Corn silking reached 21%, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 20%.
Corn at the dough stage came in at 1%, matching the 5-year average.
Corn condition was rated 4% very poor, 6% poor, 22% fair, 55% good, and 13% excellent.
Soybean emergence was at 96%, in line with the 5-year average.
Soybeans blooming reached 38%, compared to a 29% average.
Soybeans setting pods were at 5%, slightly above the 5-year average of 4%.
Soybean condition was rated 5% very poor, 8% poor, 33% fair, 45% good, and 9% excellent.
Winter wheat harvest stood at 87%, just below the 5-year average of 88%.
Winter wheat condition was rated 1% very poor, 5% poor, 17% fair, 53% good, and 14% excellent.
While crop development is on pace with historical averages, continued weather variability may further impact condition ratings as the growing season progresses.
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