Corn and soybean planting leads averages as wheat faces challenges
The USDA released its tenth Crop Progress report of the 2026 growing season, showing strong planting progress for major crops across the United States.
Corn planting is nearly complete, reaching 97% across the top 18 growing states. This is slightly ahead of the five-year average of 96%. Most of the crops have also emerged, with 86% reported, matching the average. Corn condition remains stable, with 67% rated good to excellent, 27% fair, and 6% poor to very poor.
Soybean planting is also moving ahead quickly. About 92% of the crop is on the ground, exceeding the five-year average of 88%. Emergence has reached 79%, which is ahead of normal progress. Crop condition shows 65% rated good to excellent, while 29% is fair and 6% is poor to very poor.
Winter wheat is progressing well in development, with 92% of the crop headed, above the five-year average of 85%. Harvest has started, with 11% completed, ahead of average levels. However, crop quality remains a concern, with only 25% rated good to excellent and 46% rated poor to very poor.
Spring wheat planting is nearly finished, reaching 98%, which is ahead of average. About 87% of the crop has emerged. Its condition is moderate, with 52% rated good to excellent and 42% fair.
Oat crop progress is also strong. About 95% have emerged, and 39% have already headed, both ahead of average levels. However, crop conditions are mixed, with 47% rated good to excellent and 19% poor to very poor.
Overall, the report highlights strong early-season progress for corn and soybeans, while wheat conditions remain a challenge for U.S. farmers.
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