Illinois’ planting season enters new phase next week

Posted on August 7, 2024
This Monday brings the first yield forecast for corn and soybeans around Illinois. (WJBC file photo)

By USDA

SPRINGFIELD – There were 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending August 4, 2024. Statewide, the average temperature was 78.2 degrees, 4.2 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 1.76 inches, 0.97 inches above normal.

Topsoil moisture supply was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 75 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 1 percent very short, 11 percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus.

Corn silking reached 94 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 93 percent. Corn dough reached 56 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 46 percent. Corn dented reached 4 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 2 percent. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 20 percent excellent.

Soybeans blooming reached 92 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 84 percent. Soybeans setting pods reached 77 percent, compared to the 5- year average of 54 percent. Soybeans condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 17 percent excellent.

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