Illinois crop progress for the week ending July 28

There were 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending July 28, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Illinois Field Office. Statewide, the average temperature was 73.6 degrees, 1.7 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged 0.66 inches, 0.21 inches below normal.

Topsoil moisture supply was rated 2% very short, 9% short, 82% adequate, and 7% surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 2% very short, 17% short, 77% adequate, and 4% surplus.

Corn silking reached 87%, compared to 93% last year, and the five-year average of 85%. Corn dough reached 34%, compared to 30% last year, and the five-year average of 26%. Corn condition was rated 2% very poor, 4% poor, 18% fair, 58% good, and 18% excellent.

Soybeans blooming reached 88%, compared to 86% last year, and the five-year average of 71%. Soybeans setting pods reached 58%, compared to 53% last year, and the five-year average of 37%. Soybeans condition was rated 2% very poor, 5% poor, 21% fair, 56% good, and 16% excellent.

Alfalfa hay second cutting reached 89%, compared to 91% last year, and the five-year average of 87%. Alfalfa hay third cutting reached 26%, compared to 34% last year, and the five-year average of 26%.