By Scout Nelson
For the week ending April 13, 2025, Nebraska experienced 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. This allowed producers to begin early planting and field preparations despite persistent moisture concerns.
Topsoil moisture supplies were rated 32% very short, 40% short, 28% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture was similarly low, with 38% very short, 41% short, 21% adequate, and no surplus reported. These moisture levels signal increasing concern for crop establishment and growth.
In the field crops report, corn planting reached just 1% completion. This is close to last year’s 2% and matches the five-year average. With moisture conditions remaining dry, further planting may be affected if rainfall does not improve.
Winter wheat condition was reported as 22% very poor, 18% poor, 30% fair, and 30% good. No portion of the crop was rated excellent. These ratings reflect ongoing difficulties in wheat fields due to poor soil moisture and earlier weather challenges.
Oats planting showed more progress, with 45% of the crop planted. This is slightly behind last year’s 55% but nearly equal to the five-year average of 46%. About 14% of oats have emerged, close to 18% last year and slightly ahead of the 10% average.
Despite dry conditions, fieldwork continues across Nebraska. Farmers are monitoring weather forecasts closely as they plan further planting and crop management. Moisture improvements in the coming weeks will be key to supporting better crop health and yields throughout the growing season.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Wheat, Weather