By Andi Anderson
Illinois farmers faced a slow start to the spring planting season during the week ending April 20, 2025. Only 4.1 days were suitable for fieldwork due to varying weather conditions across the state.
Topsoil moisture levels were mostly favorable, with 72 percent rated as adequate. However, 20 percent was reported as surplus, potentially delaying field operations in some areas. Just 1 percent was very short and 7 percent short.
Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern—73 percent adequate, 12 percent surplus, 13 percent short, and 2 percent very short.
Corn planting has started but remains behind the five-year average. As of this week, 7 percent of the corn crop has been planted, falling short of the 11 percent average. In contrast, soybean planting is slightly ahead of schedule.
Farmers have planted 10 percent of the soybean crop compared to the 5-year average of 7 percent.
Winter wheat development is progressing gradually. About 5 percent of the crop has headed, which is slightly below the five-year average of 6 percent. Overall, winter wheat condition was mostly positive. Only 1 percent was rated very poor, and 6 percent poor. The majority of the crop, 49 percent, was rated good, with 6 percent excellent and 38 percent fair.
Despite early challenges, Illinois farmers are expected to make steady progress as weather conditions improve. Continued monitoring of soil moisture and crop development will be essential in the coming weeks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Illinois, Weather