By Andi Anderson
The latest crop progress report for Illinois, covering the week ending July 21, 2024, highlights favorable conditions for fieldwork and crop development. During this period, there were 4.7 days suitable for fieldwork.
The statewide average temperature was recorded at 72.3 degrees, which is 4.5 degrees below the normal average. Precipitation levels averaged 1.76 inches, which is 0.83 inches above the normal average.
Topsoil moisture levels were reported as follows: 3 percent very short, 13 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were rated 3 percent very short, 20 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. These moisture levels indicate a generally favorable condition for crop growth.
In terms of specific crop progress, corn silking reached 80 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 70 percent. Corn dough progress reached 18 percent, exceeding the 5-year average of 11 percent.
The condition of the corn crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 16 percent excellent.
For soybeans, 81 percent of the crop was reported as blooming, significantly higher than the 5-year average of 56 percent.
Soybeans setting pods reached 42 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 21 percent. The condition of the soybean crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 12 percent excellent.
Overall, the crop progress report for Illinois indicates that the state's agricultural conditions are largely favorable, with most crops progressing well and moisture levels supporting healthy growth. Farmers can look forward to continued favorable conditions if these trends persist.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn, Weather