Illinois crop progress for week ending May 18

There were 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending May 18, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Heartland Regional Field Office.

Statewide, the average temperature was 67.4 degrees, 4.6 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 0.39 inches, 0.80 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture supply was rated 5% very short, 26% short, 51% adequate, and 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 5% very short, 23% short, 54% adequate, and 18% surplus.

Corn planted reached 74%, compared to 63% last year, and the five-year average of 77%. Corn emerged reached 54%, compared to 46% last year, and the five-year average of 48%.

Soybeans planted reached 67%, compared to 55% last year, and the five-year average of 64%. Soybeans emerged reached 45%, compared to 29% last year, and the five-year average of 33%.

Winter wheat headed reached 63%, compared to 89% last year, and the five-year average of 77%. Winter wheat condition was rated 5% poor, 35% fair, 49% good, and 11% excellent.