By Andi Anderson
In the week ending August 11, 2024, Illinois experienced 6.6 days suitable for fieldwork, allowing farmers to continue working on their crops.
Despite below-normal temperatures averaging 71.4 degrees, which was 2.4 degrees lower than usual, and minimal precipitation of only 0.06 inches—0.85 inches below normal—the state's crops continued to progress favorably.
Topsoil moisture levels across Illinois were reported as 2 percent very short, 18 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus.
Subsoil moisture levels were similarly stable, with 2 percent very short, 18 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. These conditions provided a solid foundation for crop growth, with moisture levels largely supporting the needs of the crops.
Corn across the state continued to advance well. As of August 11, 96 percent of corn had reached the silking stage, closely aligning with the 5-year average of 97 percent.
69 percent of corn had reached the dough stage, surpassing the 5-year average of 63 percent, and 18 percent of corn had already begun denting, well ahead of the 5-year average of 10 percent.
The overall condition of the corn crop was promising, with ratings of 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 21 percent excellent.
Soybeans also showed strong progress, with 94 percent of soybeans blooming, slightly above the 5-year average of 91 percent. Furthermore, 84 percent of soybeans were setting pods, significantly ahead of the 5-year average of 69 percent.
The condition of the soybean crop remained positive, with 2 percent rated very poor, 6 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 18 percent excellent.
Despite the challenges of lower-than-normal rainfall and cooler temperatures, Illinois crops continued to progress well, supported by favorable field conditions and adequate moisture levels.
The state's farmers remain optimistic as they monitor the growth and development of their crops during this critical stage of the growing season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn, Weather