According to the latest Illinois Crop Progress and Condition Report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Illinois farmers are ahead of schedule in planting this year's corn and soybean crops. As of Sunday, corn planted in Illinois reached 73 percent, exceeding the five-year average of 46 percent, and corn that has emerged reached 17 percent, compared to the five-year average of 14 percent.
Similarly, soybean planting in Illinois has also made significant progress, with 66 percent of the crop planted, compared to the five-year average of 28 percent, and 14 percent of soybeans emerged, exceeding the five-year average of 6 percent.
The report also showed promising developments in winter wheat, with 39 percent of the crop headed, surpassing the five-year average of 27 percent. The condition of the winter wheat crop was rated as 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 11 percent excellent.
Illinois farmers' continued progress in planting is a positive sign for the state's agricultural industry, and the favorable weather conditions have helped them stay ahead of schedule.
Photo Credit: istock-i-Stockr
Categories: Illinois, Crops