The state’s corn crop has started growing, but very little of it has actually been planted so far.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1 percent of Illinois’ corn crop has emerged. This is down from the five-year average of 23 percent.
However, only 15 percent of the crop expected to be seeded this year has been planted, compared to the average of 58 percent.
Soybeans are also lagging. Only 11 percent of the bean crop has been planted, compared to the average of 30 percent.
Meanwhile, winter wheat headed was 19 percent, compared to the average of 42 percent. Winter wheat condition was rated 9 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 34 percent good and 11 percent excellent.
Rainy weather continues to be the problem. There were only 1.7 days suitable for field work last week, the USDA reported.
Precipitation averaged 1.56 inches, .53 inches above normal. Locally, 1.93 inches of rain was reported.
Topsoil moisture supply was rated 1 percent short, 49 percent adequate and 50 percent surplus.
Subsoil moisture supply was rated 2 percent short, 58 percent adequate and 40 percent surplus.
Statewide, the average temperature was 53.9 degrees, 4.7 degrees below normal. Crawford County, on the other hand, was slightly warmer than normal at an average temperature of 59.5.