(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report, last week’s average temperature was 74.5 degrees around the state, less than a full degree (0.3) above normal. The statewide average rainfall was at 0.83 inches last week, slightly above normal, at three-hundredths of an inch (0.03). As of Sunday, the Illinois corn crop in the silk stage was 96% (compared to the 95% 5-year average), corn in the dough stage was at 53% (compared to the 48% 5-year average), and corn denting was at 1% (compared to the 5-year average of 2%). Soybeans blooming was at 88% (compared to the 87% 5-year average) and soybeans setting pods was at 66% (compared to the 61% 5-year average). While the winter wheat harvest is complete, both the corn and soybean crops are still in mostly good to excellent condition, 69% for corn and 63% for beans. Farmers are still reminded to “stay safe” while working.
