Spring planting is off to a strong start across Illinois, especially in the southern third of the state, as farmers take advantage of favorable field conditions. According to the USDA, 4% of the state’s corn crop and 7% of the soybean crop have already been planted.
The week ending April 12th saw an average of 4.2 days suitable for fieldwork, helping producers make early progress. Statewide, the average temperature reached 51.3 degrees, which is 1.3 degrees above normal for this time of year. Precipitation averaged just .25 inches, coming in .51 inches below normal.
Moisture Conditions:
Topsoil moisture: 7% very short, 19% short, 67% adequate, 7% surplus
Subsoil moisture: 10% very short, 28% short, 57% adequate, 5% surplus
Corn planting has reached 4%, surpassing the five-year average of 3%. Soybean planting is even further ahead, at 7%, compared to the five-year average of just 2%.
Winter Wheat Conditions:
2% very poor
4% poor
27% fair
57% good
10% excellent
Additionally, 6% of the winter wheat crop has headed, up from the five-year average of 3%.
With above-average temperatures and mostly adequate soil moisture, Illinois farmers are off to a promising start for the 2026 planting season.