The USDA’s latest weekly Crop Progress and Condition Report shows that Illinois farmers are nearing the end of the winter wheat harvest, which now stands at 98% complete—slightly ahead of the five-year average of 96%.
For the week ending July 20, the state experienced 3.9 days suitable for fieldwork. The average statewide temperature was 76.9 degrees, which aligns with historical norms. Precipitation averaged 1.88 inches, approximately 1 inch above normal.
Topsoil moisture levels were reported as:
2% very short
10% short
68% adequate
20% surplus
Subsoil moisture was rated:
2% very short
24% short
61% adequate
13% surplus
Corn progress continues slightly ahead of schedule:
79% of corn acres have reached the silking stage (5-year avg: 76%)
15% of corn has reached the dough stage (5-year avg: 13%)
Corn condition ratings: 3% very poor, 5% poor, 22% fair, 54% good, and 16% excellent
Soybeans are also progressing steadily:
68% blooming (5-year avg: 64%)
30% setting pods (5-year avg: 26%)
Condition ratings: 4% very poor, 6% poor, 30% fair, 44% good, and 16% excellent
With harvest nearly complete and summer crop progress continuing at or above average pace, Illinois farmers are staying on track despite recent rainfall challenges.
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