Illinois Crop Weather Report - Week Ending October 22, 2023

By Andi Anderson

The Illinois Crop Weather Report for the week ending October 22, 2023, provides a comprehensive overview of the weather conditions and their impact on agricultural activities in the state.

Weather Highlights:

• There were 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork during this week, providing opportunities for various agricultural tasks.
• The statewide average temperature was 53.5 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight deviation of 0.5 degrees above the normal average. These temperature variations can influence crop development and growth.
• Precipitation during the week averaged 0.23 inches, which is 0.5 inches below the normal average. Below-average precipitation can impact soil moisture levels and crop conditions.

Soil Moisture Supply:

The report highlights the soil moisture supply, indicating that:

• Topsoil moisture supply was rated as 8 percent very short, 33 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus.
• Subsoil moisture supply was rated as 10 percent very short, 46 percent short, 43 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Crop Progress:

• Corn harvested reached 70 percent, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 67 percent.
• Soybeans harvested reached 80 percent, surpassing the 5-year average of 71 percent.
• Winter wheat planting reached 73 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 66 percent.
• Winter wheat emergence reached 36 percent, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 34 percent.

Pasture Condition:

The report also provides insight into pasture conditions, with the latest data showing improvements:

• Very Poor: 21 percent
• Poor: 17 percent
• Fair: 25 percent
• Good: 24 percent
• Excellent: 31 percent

Comparing these figures with the previous week reveals gradual improvements in pasture conditions, which are vital for livestock.

This detailed report offers valuable information for farmers and stakeholders in the Illinois agricultural sector, providing insights into temperature fluctuations, precipitation levels, soil moisture, and crop progress.

The report is an essential resource for making informed decisions regarding agricultural operations in the state.

Photo Credit: freepik-upklyak