Illinois crop progress for the week ending Aug. 18

There were 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending Aug. 18, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Illinois Field Office. Statewide, the average temperature was 72.9 degrees, 1.0 degree below normal. Precipitation averaged 1.20 inches, 0.31 inches above normal.

Topsoil moisture supply was rated 4% very short, 14% short, 79% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 4% very short, 16% short, 77% adequate, and 3% surplus.

Corn dough reached 85%, compared to 77% last year, and five-year average of 75%. Corn dented reached 40%, compared to 34% last year, and five-year average of 27%. Corn mature reached 1%. Corn condition was rated 2% very poor, 4% poor, 18% fair, 56% good, and 20% excellent.

Soybeans blooming reached 96%, compared to 96% last year, and five-year average of 95%. Soybeans setting pods reached 89%, compared to 84% last year, and five-year average of 79%. Soybeans condition was rated 3% very poor, 6% poor, 21% fair, 53% good, and 17% excellent.