MORTON, Ill. (WMBD) — Planting season for farmers in Illinois typically kicks off in March and goes through April and May.

According to the Farm Journal, planting is expected to surge this week as the weather begins to dry up across the Midwest after lots of rain.

The United States Department of Agriculture reports 40% of corn planting is completed nationally.

Here in Illinois, we’re running a bit behind average, with just a third of corn planting done. Soybean farming in the state remains ahead of the average at 10%.

Morton farmer John Ackerman said he’s completing his last field of soybeans.

“We had a great early start, at least in this part of the state. I know other parts of the state have had it kind of wet and not able to get in the fields. Most of my crops are already up, to be honest, which is very early for this kind of time of year,” said Ackerman.

If you’re looking to plant some flowers in your yard, now is the time. A gardener with Hoerr Nursery said May is the time to make sure your plants are healthy for the summer.

That includes keeping up with weeding and using fertilizer. Once your plants emerge, be sure to use mulch to retain water and suppress weeds.

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