Crop Planting Progress is Finally Near Normal for Most Crops

U.S. corn and soybean plantings are close to normal after the slow start to the season. Still, delays due to wet weather persist in some areas, including northern portions of the Midwest and Plains. The USDA says that as of last Sunday, 86% of the corn crop is planted, compared to the five-year average of 87%, with 61% emerged, compared to 68% on average. Soybeans are
66% planted, compared to 67% normally in late May, with 39% emerged, compared to 43% on average.

Winter wheat is 29% good to excellent, 1% above a week ago, with 72% of the crop headed, compared to 76% on average.
Spring wheat is 73% planted, compared to the five-year average of 92%, with just 42% emerged, compared to 69% on average.

Cotton is 68% planted, compared to 64% typically this time of year, with 7% squaring, matching the normal pace, and 44% of the crop is in good to excellent condition, 1% more than a year ago.

Approximately 95% of rice is planted, compared to the five-year average of 94%, with 79% emerged, compared to 81% on average, and 71% rated good to excellent condition, a week-to-week gain of 1%.

Nearly 24% of U.S. pastures and rangelands are good to excellent condition, 2% higher than a week ago.

Editor’s Take:

What a relief to see that planting is either near or, in some cases, ahead of normal. It has been a tough go in many parts of the country to get in the fields to complete planting. Finally, there has been a break in weather patterns farmers needed to get moving again. Obviously, with late planting the next concern will be what, if any, impact this might have on yields. Yield is critical this year with the disruptions in planting in other parts of the world, notably the Ukraine. Grain prices remain high and farm income is projected to be at or near record levels in 2022. So, what are you waiting for? Let farmers know you are a CAD member and can help with parts, service or even that new truck they desire.