Illinois Crop Progress and Conditions - October 29, 2023

By Andi Anderson

In the week ending October 29, 2023, Illinois experienced unique weather patterns that influenced crop progress and conditions. Here's a breakdown of the key findings:

Temperature and Precipitation:

• The state saw an average temperature of 57.6 degrees, marking a deviation of 5.8 degrees above normal.
• Precipitation levels averaged 1.25 inches, surpassing the normal average by 0.7 inches.
• These unusual weather conditions significantly impacted the agricultural landscape.

Topsoil and Subsoil Moisture Supply:

• The topsoil moisture supply was assessed as follows: 7 percent very short, 16 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 15 percent surplus.
• Subsoil moisture supply was reported as 8 percent very short, 33 percent short, 55 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus.
• These moisture supply ratings reflect the ongoing challenge faced by farmers due to the weather extremes.

Corn Progress:

• Corn harvesting in Illinois reached 81 percent, surpassing the 5-year average of 77 percent.
• The favorable conditions allowed for better progress, ensuring that a significant portion of the corn crop was successfully harvested.

Soybean Progress:

• Soybean harvesting reached 89 percent, surpassing the 5-year average of 82 percent.
• The productive week provided an excellent opportunity for soybean harvesting, improving the overall progress.

Winter Wheat Planting and Emergence:

• Winter wheat planting achieved 90 percent, exceeding the 5-year average of 78 percent.
• Winter wheat emergence was at 63 percent, surpassing the 5-year average of 50 percent.
• The conditions favored both planting and emergence, boding well for the upcoming season.

Winter Wheat Condition:

• The overall condition of winter wheat was rated as follows: 1 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 20 percent excellent.
• These assessments indicate that a significant portion of winter wheat is in favorable condition, with good and excellent ratings reflecting healthy growth.

The report highlights the resilience of Illinois farmers in the face of unusual weather patterns. Despite temperature fluctuations and increased precipitation, the state's corn, soybeans, and winter wheat crops have made notable progress. The moisture supply, though challenging, is managed adequately, and the future of these crops appears promising.

Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko