Rain keeps growers from fields

Rain kept producers out of the field during the latter half of last week, according to the latest crop progress and weather report for Illinois released Monday afternoon.

There were 3.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 30. Statewide, the average temperature was 55.9 degrees, 0.6 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged 4.12 inches, 3.25 inches above normal.

Topsoil moisture supply was rated at 42 percent adequate and 58 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated at 2 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 38 percent surplus.

Corn planted was at 63 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 47 percent. Corn emerged was at 20 percent, compared to 22 percent last year and the 5-year average of 15 percent.

Soybeans planted were at 13 percent. Winter Wheat headed jumped to 67 percent. Winter wheat condition was rated 5 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 12 percent excellent.

Oats planted reached 94 percent. Pasture and range condition was rated at 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 24 percent excellent.