Warm and Wet Week in Illinois Last Week Says Crop Report

Most of Illinois experienced warm and wet conditions last week, with the central and western districts receiving over three inches of rainfall.

Activities included spraying herbicides and cutting hay. With soybean planting nearing completion, many operators began to prepare for wheat harvest.

Statewide precipitation averaged 2.08 inches, 1.15 inches above normal for the week ending June 8. Temperatures averaged 70.8 degrees, 1.8 degrees above normal. There were 3.7 days suitable for fieldwork.

Corn emerged reached 97%, ahead of the five-year average of 91%. Soybeans planted reached 92%, well ahead of the five-year average of 78%. Soybeans emerged reached 80%, ahead of the five-year average of 60%. Winter wheat headed reached 93%, behind the five-year average of 98%.

Topsoil moisture was rated at 1% very short, 6% short, 81% adequate and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated at 3% very short, 16% short, 76% adequate and 5% surplus. 

Corn and soybean conditions were rated 74% and 76% good to excellent, respectively. Winter wheat condition was rated 66% good to excellent. Pasture condition was rated at 1% very poor, 4% poor, 28% fair, 47% good, and 20% excellent.