Illinois farmers are making an early push on corn and soybean harvest, while some are beginning to plant winter wheat.
According to the latest USDA Crop Progress and Condition Report, farmers had 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending September 20.
Corn harvest reached 16% statewide, well ahead of the five-year average of 9%. Corn maturity reached 69%, compared with the 63% average, while 94% of the crop has reached the dent stage. Corn condition was rated 57% good to excellent.
Soybean harvest is also ahead of schedule, reaching 13% compared with the five-year average of 5%. Sixty-seven percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, and 57% of the crop was rated good to excellent.
Meanwhile, winter wheat planting is getting underway. USDA reports 3% of the crop has been planted and 1% has emerged. The five-year average for wheat planting at this point is 4%.
Soil moisture remains mixed across Illinois. Topsoil moisture was rated 36% short or very short, 55% adequate and 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 37% short or very short, 58% adequate and 5% surplus.