Illinois farmers continue to make good progress

Posted on May 16, 2023
Emerging corn
Corn and soybeans are making progress. (WJBC file photo)

By USDA

SPRINGFIELD – There were 3.5 days suitable for field work during the week ending May 14, 2023. Statewide, the average temperature was 67.8 degrees, 6.4 degrees above normal.

Precipitation averaged 1.47 inches, 0.51 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture supply was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 59 percent adequate, and 33 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 3 percent very short, 8 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus.

Corn planted reached 84 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 63 percent. Corn emerged reached 45 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 34 percent. Soybeans planted reached 77 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 45 percent. Soybeans emerged reached 38 percent compared to the 5-year average of 18 percent.

Winter wheat headed was 74 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 56 percent. Winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 11 percent excellent.

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