USDA report - US crops off to a fast start

Corn silking advances, soybeans on track

By Farms.com

The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) latest crop progress report brings positive news for corn and soybean farmers. Seeding for both crops is complete, and development is progressing well.

A key indicator for corn health, silking, has reached 11% nationally. This is ahead of both the 2023 rate (7%) and the five-year average (6%). Warmer temperatures following earlier wet conditions are credited with accelerating corn development.

Corn condition ratings are also encouraging. While a small portion (3% and 6%) is classified as very poor or poor, the majority (77%) falls under fair, good, or excellent categories.

Soybean emergence is at 95%, slightly lower than last year's 97% but exceeding the five-year average (93%). Soybeans are also blooming at a healthy rate, matching the 2023 level (20%) and surpassing the five-year average (15%).

The report also provides the first update on soybean pod setting, with 3% of the crop reaching this stage. This aligns with both last year's figure and the five-year average (2%).

Soybean condition mirrors corn, with a small percentage (8%) categorized as very poor or poor. The majority (87%) falls under fair, good, or excellent ratings.

The USDA report paints a promising picture for the US corn and soybean crops. Early silking in corn and healthy blooming progress in soybeans indicate a potentially strong harvest season.