By Andi Anderson
Illinois farmers experienced favorable conditions for fieldwork in the week ending August 25, 2024, with 6.8 days deemed suitable.
Despite cooler temperatures, averaging 68.7 degrees, which is 4.6 degrees below normal, crops showed strong progress. Rainfall was minimal, with an average of only 0.01 inches, significantly below the normal 0.66 inches. These conditions have led to varied moisture levels across the state.
Topsoil moisture was rated 7 percent very short, 31 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were similar, with 7 percent very short, 24 percent short, 68 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.
These ratings indicate that while some areas are experiencing dry conditions, the majority of the state has sufficient moisture for crops.
Corn development is ahead of the five-year average, with 92 percent of the crop reaching the dough stage, compared to the usual 84 percent. Corn denting was at 62 percent, significantly higher than the 47 percent average, and 10 percent of the corn had matured, compared to the usual 3 percent.
Corn condition was reported as 5 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 17 percent excellent, showing overall favorable conditions.
Soybean progress is also strong, with 93 percent of the crop setting pods, exceeding the five-year average of 86 percent.
Soybean leaf drop had reached 6 percent. Soybean conditions were rated 4 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 12 percent excellent, reflecting steady development.
Despite the challenges of cooler weather and low precipitation, Illinois crops are progressing well, with moisture levels sufficient for continued growth. The state remains on track for a productive harvest season.
Photo Credit: istock-oticki
Categories: Illinois, Weather