USDA Reports Strong Wisconsin Planting Pace for Spring Crops

By Blake Jackson

Wisconsin farmers made strong planting progress during the week ending May 10, 2026, as mostly dry weather allowed field activity to move ahead rapidly, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The state recorded 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. However, cooler nighttime temperatures slowed corn emergence and raised concerns about possible frost damage to fruit and berry crops.

Topsoil moisture conditions across the state were rated 62% adequate and 30% surplus, while subsoil moisture was rated 71% adequate and 25% surplus. Only a small percentage of fields were reported short on moisture supplies.

Corn planting reached 31% complete, slightly behind the five-year average of 33%. Soybean planting advanced to 28%, which is slightly ahead of the average pace for this time of year.

Oat planting reached 47% complete compared to the five-year average of 57%, while 23% of the oat crop had emerged. Spring tillage progress was reported at 61%, matching normal levels.

Pasture and range conditions improved, with 54% rated good to excellent. Hay conditions were rated 71% good to excellent, while winter wheat conditions improved to 59% good to excellent.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-frankoppermann