Illinois farmers are ahead of schedule in this year’s harvest, according to the latest USDA crop report. As of Sunday, 12% of corn has been harvested statewide, three points ahead of the five-year average, with 56% rated in good to excellent condition. Nearly all corn (96%) is dented, and 69% is mature.
Soybean progress is also outpacing the average, with 9% harvested, four points ahead of normal. About 77% of fields are dropping leaves, while crop condition stands at 52% good to excellent.
Despite weekend rain, drought concerns remain. Just 21% of topsoil moisture is rated adequate or surplus, while only 16% of pastures are in good to excellent shape. USDA reported farmers had 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending September 21st.
Conditions were especially dry, with topsoil rated 35% very short, 44% short, and only 20% adequate.
Other highlights:
Winter wheat planting reached 6%, ahead of the 3% average.
Corn condition: 42% good, 14% excellent, 27% fair, 17% poor/very poor.
Soybean condition: 40% good, 12% excellent, 24% fair, 24% poor/very poor.
Comments