As the 2025 planting season moves forward, U.S. producers are steadily advancing across key row crops. The latest USDA Crop Progress report, released April 21, highlights significant week-over-week gains in corn and soybean planting, while spring wheat planting remains behind historical averages in many northern states.
🌽 Corn
Corn planting progress reached 12% nationally, up from just 4% the prior week. However, it still trails the 5-year average of 11%. States showing the most rapid planting include:
- Texas: 66% complete
- North Carolina: 42%
- Missouri: 33%
- Kansas: 27%
Emergence also began, with 2% of corn acres emerged nationwide, led by Texas (54%) and North Carolina (21%).
🌱 Soybeans
Soybean planting reached 5% nationwide, up from 2% last week and in line with the 5-year average. The most active states include:
- Louisiana: 28% planted
- Arkansas: 20%
- Mississippi: 23%
- Missouri: 6%
Cooler weather across parts of the Midwest continues to slow early planting, but pace is expected to increase with improving soil conditions.
🌾 Spring Wheat
Spring wheat planting sits at 12% nationally, behind the 5-year average of 17%. Only Idaho (43%) and Washington (61%) are showing above-average progress, while key producers like North Dakota (5%) and Minnesota (6%) remain well behind schedule.
Outlook
Fieldwork accelerated this past week, with favorable weather contributing to strong progress across the Southern Plains and parts of the Delta region. However, northern states are still battling wet and cool conditions. As we move into late April, market participants will be closely watching planting pace and emergence, particularly for corn, where delays can quickly begin impacting yield potential.
Our team of experienced commodity brokers is here to help you navigate spring planting reports and their market impact.
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