Cool and dry this past week for Illinois crops

By USDA

SPRINGFIELD – There were 6.0 days suitable for field work during the week ending September 17, 2023. Statewide, the average temperature was 63.9 degrees, 3.2 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged 0.66 inches, 0.18 inches below normal.

Topsoil moisture supply was rated 19 percent very short, 49 percent short, and 32 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 21 percent very short, 45 percent short, and 34 percent adequate.

Corn dented reached 94 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 87 percent. Corn mature reached 70 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 46 percent. Corn harvested reached 6 percent, equal to the 5-year average. Corn condition was rated 9 percent very poor, 13 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 5 percent excellent.

Soybeans dropping leaves reached 66 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 37 percent. Soybeans harvested reached 1 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 2 percent. Soybean condition was rated 8 percent very poor, 13 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 7 percent excellent.

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