By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Crop Progress report for the week ending September 15, 2024, highlights a productive period for the state's agricultural sector, with 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork.
Favorable weather allowed farmers to make significant advancements in crop maturity and harvest activities.
The statewide average temperature was recorded at 69.1°F, slightly above the normal by 0.8°F. However, precipitation fell short, averaging 0.25 inches, which is 0.54 inches below the normal.
Despite the dry spell, moisture conditions remained stable. Topsoil moisture was rated as 22 percent very short, 36 percent short, and 42 percent adequate, while subsoil moisture stood at 19 percent very short, 34 percent short, and 47 percent adequate.
Corn crop maturity is progressing well, with 93 percent of the crop dented, surpassing the 5-year average of 84 percent. Corn maturity reached 63 percent, significantly higher than the 5-year average of 40 percent.
Corn harvesting also gained momentum, with 7 percent of the crop harvested, ahead of the 5-year average of 3 percent. Corn condition is currently rated at 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 21 percent excellent.
Soybean crops are also progressing well, with 62 percent of the plants dropping leaves, well above the 5-year average of 31 percent. Soybean harvesting reached 6 percent, compared to just 1 percent for the 5-year average.
The condition of the soybean crop is rated as 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 18 percent excellent.
As Illinois farmers continue to benefit from favorable conditions for fieldwork, both corn and soybean crops are set to perform above average in terms of progress and maturity, positioning the state for a strong harvest season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: Illinois, Harvesting