USDA Reports Illinois Corn and Soybeans Continue Strong Development

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois corn and soybean crops continued to develop at a steady pace during the week ending July 5, according to the latest Crop Progress and Conditions report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Corn silking reached 17 percent, compared with 8 percent the previous week and matching the five year average. Corn dough reached 1 percent, while the crop was rated 58 percent good to excellent, with 13 percent rated excellent. Soybeans were 33 percent blooming, ahead of the five year average of 29 percent, and 8 percent were setting pods, compared with the five year average of 3 percent. Soybean condition was rated 58 percent good to excellent. Illinois farmers had 4.5 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. Topsoil moisture was rated 66 percent adequate and 26 percent surplus, while subsoil moisture was rated 69 percent adequate and 19 percent surplus.