Kansas Farmers See Steady Growth

By Scout Nelson

Kansas farmers experienced only 2.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending June 28, 2026, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Despite limited working days, crop development continued at a steady pace across the state.

Soil moisture levels remained generally favorable. Topsoil moisture was rated 58% adequate and 28% surplus, while subsoil moisture was reported at 65% adequate and 14% surplus. These moisture levels have helped support crop growth during the season.

The winter wheat harvest made significant progress. The crop reached 98% maturity, moving ahead of both last year and the five-year average. Harvest activities advanced rapidly, with 72% of the crop harvested, well ahead of 48% at the same time last year and above the average pace of 52%.

Corn conditions remained mostly positive statewide. The crop was rated 66% good to excellent, while 24% of the corn acreage had reached the silking stage. Corn development was slightly ahead of the five-year average, indicating favorable growing conditions.

Soybean fields also continued progressing well. Planting was nearly complete at 92%, while 85% of the crop had emerged. Soybean blooming reached 12%, slightly ahead of average. Overall, 68% of soybeans were rated in good to excellent condition, reflecting healthy crop development.

Sorghum was showing steady growth across Kansas. Planting reached 86%, and 5% of the crop had headed. Crop condition ratings indicated that 60% of sorghum fields were in good to excellent condition, providing optimism for producers.

Cotton development advanced quickly during the reporting period. Squaring reached 36%, significantly ahead of 11% last year and above the five-year average. Boll setting reached 2%, while most cotton fields were rated fair to good.

Sunflower planting, however, remained behind normal progress. Only 72% of the crop had been planted, compared to 82% last year and an average of 84%.

Kansas pasture and range conditions also remained encouraging. Nearly 56% of pasture and range land was rated good to excellent, providing adequate grazing opportunities for livestock producers.

Overall, favorable moisture conditions and strong crop progress helped Kansas producers maintain positive outlooks as the growing season moves forward.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev