Crops ahead of schedule in report

SPRINGFIELD – There were 5.1 days suitable for field work during the week ending July 16, according to the weekly crop progress and weather report issued Monday for Illinois.

Topsoil moisture supply was rated 19 percent very short, 28 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 24 percent very short, 33 percent short, 42 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Corn silking reached 70 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 59 percent. Corn dough reached 7 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 6 percent. Corn condition was rated 7 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 6 percent excellent.

Soybeans blooming reached 61 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 49 percent. Soybeans setting pods reached 19 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 18 percent. Soybean condition was rated 5 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 5 percent excellent.

Winter wheat harvested for grain was 95 percent, compared to the 5-year average of 94 percent.