Warm and dry this past week for Illinois farmers

Corn harvest
Corn harvested for grain reached 11 percent, compared to the 5- year average of 8 percent. (WJBC file photo)

By USDA

SPRINGFIELD – There were 6.6 days suitable for field work during the week ending September 19, 2021. Statewide, the average temperature was 73.2 degrees, 7.0 above normal. Precipitation averaged 0.18 inches, 0.71 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture supply was rated 11 percent very short, 27 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 8 percent very short, 26 percent short, and 66 percent adequate.

Corn dented reached 96 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 91 percent. Corn mature reached 72 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 52 percent. Corn harvested for grain reached 11 percent, compared to the 5- year average of 8 percent. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 21 percent excellent.

Soybeans turning color reached 79 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 69 percent. Soybeans dropping leaves reached 54 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 38 percent. Soybeans harvested reached 1 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 3 percent. Soybeans condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 20 percent excellent.

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