By Andi Anderson
During the week ending April 27, 2025, Illinois experienced 3.1 days suitable for fieldwork. Warmer weather continued across the state with an average temperature of 59.6 degrees, about 3.8 degrees above normal.
Precipitation levels averaged 1.10 inches, which is 0.26 inches above normal for this time of year.
Soil moisture conditions remained steady. Topsoil moisture was rated at 1% very short, 10% short, 66% adequate, and 23% surplus. Meanwhile, subsoil moisture stood at 2% very short, 14% short, 66% adequate, and 18% surplus, reflecting good conditions for crop growth.
Corn planting progress showed delays compared to past averages. Only 16% of corn acres were planted, compared to the five-year average of 26%. Corn emergence also lagged slightly, with 2% emerged compared to 3% average.
Soybean planting moved ahead, reaching 22%, which is slightly higher than the five-year average of 20%. Soybean emergence stood at 4%, doubling the five-year average of 2%.
Winter wheat development also showed positive signs. Sixteen percent of winter wheat had headed, above the five-year average of 12%. Condition ratings for winter wheat were generally strong, with 49% rated good and 8% rated excellent. Only 2% were rated very poor and 4% poor, while 37% were considered fair.
Despite the wetter conditions slowing corn planting, farmers made progress with soybeans and maintained healthy winter wheat crops. Warmer weather and improved soil moisture should support continued planting efforts across Illinois in the coming weeks.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Illinois, Weather