IP Crop Network: May 26 report

Since the last crop report two weeks ago, planting has really taken off. Overall, planting is ahead of the five-year average and close to finished, if not fully finished, in most of our grower areas.

In Minnesota, many growers have finished planting both corn and soybeans. Throughout the whole state, soybean planting is 74% complete, well ahead of the five-year average of 53%. 22% has seen emergence, also ahead of the five-year average of 14%. One grower mentioned that his beans are staying clean due to his pre-plant chemical, and his natto beans are in the unifoliate stage. Crop development continues to vary significantly across the state due to differences in weather patterns, planting dates and soil conditions. In southern Minnesota, some soybean fields have already reached the V1 growth stage, while in northern regions, some growers are just finishing planting. Corn development shows a similar trend, with southern fields reaching V1-V2 stages while northern fields are still emerging. Cereals are also showing variable growth across regions. Though crops remain behind in development, rainfall and warmer temps have made a difference. Over the past two weeks, temperatures across Minnesota have remained near average, supporting good crop emergence and early growth. However, warmer conditions arrived later than usual this spring. That delay is still noticeable across many fields, with crops generally running slightly behind normal development for this time of year.

In southern Wisconsin, planting progress is essentially complete, with approximately 98–100% of acres planted. Statewide, soybeans sit at 54% planted, and corn is at 62%. Emergence is beginning across a fair number of fields, especially following the warmer conditions over the weekend. Soybeans are starting to reach the VE (Vegetative Emergence) growth stage, while corn emergence is also becoming more noticeable throughout the area. Residual Herbicides are being applied aggressively to achieve proper timing and good weed control. Looking ahead, the 6-10-day forecast calls for slightly warmer-than-average temperatures across Wisconsin and northern Illinois, along with limited precipitation and little to no significant rainfall in the outlook. Limited rainfall has been the theme, and most fields could really use a good soaking event.

North Dakota’s planting is progressing. Most of the area has adequate moisture. With some above normal temperatures forecasted, the plants will likely start emerging very quickly. Corn planting sits at 58% finished with 13% emergence, and soybeans are at 41% with 5% emergence.

Illinois is finishing the last 25% of planting for both corn and soybeans. Many farmers are finished, but there are a few left to finish up. The state is still ahead of average, according to the NASS report. Many plants have emerged, also ahead of schedule, thanks to the heat recently. While crops are doing fine right now, some rain could be used in the forecast before things dry out too much.

This twice monthly report highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. The reports include both first-hand accounts and data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) weekly Crop Progress reports.