(Washington) Corn and soybean planting are both running ahead of average pace nationwide, according to the latest USDA Crop Progress report.
Corn planting reached 38% complete as of Sunday, matching last year and topping the five-year average of 34%. Leading states include Tennessee at 87%, with Texas and Kentucky each at 77%. Key producers like Iowa and Illinois have completed one-third. Corn emergence stands at 13%, ahead of both last year (10%) and the five-year average (9%).
Soybean planting is progressing even faster, with 33% completed—5 points ahead of last year and 10 points above the five-year average. Louisiana (84%), Mississippi (77%), and Arkansas (73%) are leading. Soybean emergence also reached 13%, well ahead of last year (6%) and the five-year average (5%).
Weather conditions could slow momentum, as recent cold snaps and frost may have impacted crops and delayed planting in northern areas. A large storm system is also expected to bring widespread rain across much of the country.
