Rain and continuing wet conditions have left farmers in parts of Illinois behind schedule—threatening Illinois’ overall soybean, corn and wheat production this year.
In the southwestern region, the 2015 soybean crop is only 56% planted, compared to the southeastern area at 72% planted, and the statewide average of 88%. Overall, 77% of the state soybean crop has emerged, with 74% rated as good or excellent. Corn conditions are looking slightly better, with 78% rated as good or excellent, and 96% emerged.
The USDA has released its estimate for the upcoming 2015 winter wheat harvest at 570,000 acres, down 15% from 2014, with the total yield estimated at 37.6 million bushels, down 16% from last year.