By Andi Anderson
Illinois farmers encountered mixed crop progress during the week ending May 25, 2025, due to cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. The average temperature for the week was 59.4°F, which is 6 degrees below normal.
Precipitation across the state averaged 1.56 inches, which is 0.63 inches above the normal level.
The weather conditions resulted in only 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork. However, soil moisture conditions remained strong. Topsoil moisture was rated 3% very short, 18% short, 65% adequate, and 14% surplus.
Subsoil moisture followed a similar trend with 4% very short, 23% short, 59% adequate, and 14% surplus.
Corn planting reached 82%, falling short of the 5-year average of 87%. Corn emergence progressed well, reaching 70%, which is slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 69%. The condition of the corn crop was mostly positive with 1% rated very poor, 4% poor, 28% fair, 55% good, and 12% excellent.
Soybean planting stood at 75%, matching the 5-year average. Emergence reached 58%, surpassing the 5-year average of 50%. Soybean conditions were also healthy, with 1% very poor, 4% poor, 33% fair, 53% good, and 9% excellent.
Winter wheat development showed slower progress with only 72% headed, behind the 5-year average of 87%. The condition of the winter wheat crop included 1% very poor, 4% poor, 33% fair, 51% good, and 11% excellent.
Overall, despite weather-related delays, Illinois crops are emerging steadily, supported by good soil moisture and favorable crop conditions. The coming weeks will be key for catch-up in planting and crop health.
Photo Credit: getty-images-elhenyo
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Weather