The USDA’s good to excellent ratings for U.S. corn and soybeans improved slightly over the past week. That followed a cooler, wetter weather pattern that brought much needed rainfall and less stressful temperatures to some key U.S. growing areas.
As of this past Sunday, 57% of U.S. corn is in good to excellent shape, up 2% on the week, with 93% of the crop silking, 47% at the dough making stage, and 8% dented, all close to the respective five-year averages.
54% of soybeans are rated good to excellent, 2% higher than a week ago, with 90% blooming and 66% at the pod setting stage, both slightly faster than normal.
41% of spring wheat is called good to excellent, 1% lower, with 11% harvested, compared to 14% on average.
87% of winter wheat is harvested, compared to 88% typically this time of year.
41% of cotton is in good to excellent condition, unchanged, with 92% squaring, 63% setting bolls, and 8% of those bolls opening, all near usual.
61% of the rice crop is called good to excellent, steady, with 74% headed and 9% harvested, both just ahead of their average paces.
57% of the sorghum crop is reported as good to excellent, 2% more than last week, with 59% headed and 26% coloring, close to their respective usual rates.
38% of U.S. pastures and rangelands are rated good to excellent, down 2%.
The USDA’s weekly crop progress and condition reports run through the end of November.
EDITOR’S TAKE:
Overall, a very upbeat report. It appears Mother Nature is becoming more cooperative as we move closer to harvest season. Assuming commodity prices remain strong, this portends a great financial outcome for the 2023 crops. Although this may increase feed costs for some, it will be welcome news for those with excess grain to sell. And take note – after harvest, farmers/ranchers will need to get that equipment and their trucks back into tip-top condition. Why not invite them into your dealership for a service and parts special after harvest season? And, be sure to offer them an exclusive ride and drive opportunity while they wait. Who knows, they might just buy a truck or two!
