Growing conditions and days suitable for fieldwork have been outstanding in central Illinois thus far, as reflected by USDA’s most recent Illinois Crop Progress and Condition report and the word of farmers.

By May 24, 99 percent of corn had been planted in central Illinois, slightly greater than the statewide 97 percent estimate and ahead of last year’s 93 percent. In addition, 94 percent of central Illinois corn had emerged, compared with 87 percent statewide emergence this year and 78 percent statewide in 2014.

Soybean plantings were also ahead of the curve, with 82 percent in in central Illinois and 45 percent emerged, compared with 69 percent planted and 38 percent emergence across the state. On May 24, 2014, just 60 percent of soybeans had been planted in Illinois, with 29 percent emergence.

Toluca farmer Chuck Holz noted if the weather conditions continue to be as favorable the rest of the growing season as they have been thus far, he would expect a fine harvest of both commodities. "The only problems I’ve had so far this year has been with machinery," he said. "Nothing Mother Nature-related at all."

Holz knows better than to expect a problem-free growing season, however. Last year’s above-average crop could have been better save for July 4 wind damage that restricted the growth of some of his corn. But so far this year, things are looking great for the Marshall County farmer.

"I didn’t get started when it was still cold, but even those here who started when it was cold have had their corn come up real nice," he said. "Corn emergence is excellent and maybe a little bit better than last year."

The most rain Holz has measured on his farm after planting has been 0.04 or 0.05 inch. "We haven’t had any washouts or low spots at all. We’re pretty well what you consider flat and black, but we do get some washouts with large amounts of rain. This year we haven’t had anything to cause those kinds of problems."

Holz said all of the soybeans he planted – including a tract as recently as May 21 – are also emerging nicely. "We’re in good shape," he reported.

Days suitable for fieldwork were estimated at four statewide and 4.3 in central Illinois for the week ending May 24, according to the latest USDA report. More of the same cool, consistent weather he’s experienced so far this year, and during the 2014 growing season, would be welcomed, Holz said.

"Last year we didn’t have the hot weather to bake the crops, and I think that’s why we had the good yields," he concluded.