According to the USDA, Illinois farmers are making steady progress with the corn and soybean harvests, even as dry weather continues to impact field conditions.
Corn Harvest:
5% harvested, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 4%.
54% of the crop rated good to excellent.
50% of corn is mature, compared to the 5-year average of 47%.
93% dented, above the 88% average.
Soybean Harvest:
3% harvested, in line with the 5-year average of 2%.
50% of soybeans rated good to excellent.
60% dropping leaves, well ahead of the 39% average.
Moisture and Field Conditions:
Topsoil moisture: 33% very short, 42% short, 25% adequate.
Subsoil moisture: 29% very short, 45% short, 26% adequate.
Farmers logged 6.9 suitable fieldwork days during the week ending September 14.
Other Crops:
Winter wheat: 2% planted, double the 5-year average.
While progress is keeping pace with average harvest timelines, the persistent dryness remains a challenge. Only 25% of topsoil moisture is rated adequate, with no surplus reported. Pasture conditions continue to struggle, with just 22% rated good to excellent.
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