The extreme dry conditions are continuing to stunt plants and causing drought stress on crops across northern IL.

Conditions are dry across northern Illinois depending on the spotty pop up showers. Many soybeans planted from May 9-15 were challenged in no-till fields due to dry conditions and tightening soils. The key is to ensure good seed to soil contact and keep row cleaners working well in no-till environments.

Welcomed sunshine provides a boost in early season crop growth! This dry period has allowed fields to be evaluated and planned for replant as well as ponding to go away.

Many farmers wrapped up planting this week or have a significant amount planted at this point in the season. We received critical and gentle rains that will help kickstart this season on the right foot.

Many farmers have been in the heart of planting this week and some are getting closer to finishing. We received critical and gentle rains that will help kickstart this season on the right foot.

This area received variable rains that halted planting. Some areas received anywhere from 0.75” to 5” early this week, and are receiving another 0.5” today. Planting is wrapping up for the area.