By Andi Anderson
During the week ending September 8, 2024, Illinois farmers experienced 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork. Despite cooler-than-average temperatures, with an average of 65.0 degrees—5.5 degrees below normal—the state's crops made steady progress.
Precipitation was notably low, averaging 0.04 inches, which is 0.59 inches below normal. This has impacted soil moisture, with topsoil rated at 13 percent very short, 29 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Similarly, subsoil moisture levels were rated 11 percent very short, 26 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.
Corn crops showed significant progress, with 82 percent dented, surpassing the five-year average of 75 percent. Around 40 percent of the corn crop reached maturity, well ahead of the five-year average of 24 percent.
Corn harvesting for grain began, with 2 percent harvested, compared to the five-year average of 1 percent. The overall condition of the corn crop was rated positively, with 58 percent rated as good and 17 percent as excellent. However, 2 percent of the crop was rated as very poor, and 4 percent as poor.
Soybeans also showed strong development, with 35 percent of the plants dropping leaves, much higher than the five-year average of 11 percent. Soybean harvesting started, with 1 percent harvested so far.
The condition of the soybean crop was similar to corn, with 56 percent rated as good and 14 percent as excellent, while 2 percent was rated very poor, and 5 percent poor.
Despite cooler temperatures and low rainfall, Illinois crops remain in good condition, with corn and soybeans progressing faster than average. As harvest season begins, farmers remain optimistic about the yield and quality of this year's crop.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dmaroscar
Categories: Illinois, Harvesting