News

Illinois corn harvest begins later than average

After a late start to planting, corn harvest began in Illinois last week.

As of Sunday, corn harvest completed was 10 percentage points behind last year and five points behind the five-year average. Only 14 percent of the crop is mature, compared to 53 percent on average. The USDA rates Illinois corn at 41% good to excellent, 35 points lower than this time last year.

Soybeans setting pods reached 93 percent and 3 percent of the crop is dropping leaves compared to the average 33 percent. Illinois soybeans are rated 42 percent good to excellent, also 35 points lower than this time last year.

Topsoil moisture is 63% adequate to surplus. The latest drought monitor shows more than 25 counties in the northern half of the state are abnormally dry or in moderate drought.