The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that corn planting was 30% done as of Sunday as warm, dry weather allowed farmers to make good progress last week before rain arrived this week. In addition, 3% of the soybeans were planted, which included 2% in Illinois and Indiana and 3% in Iowa.

The 30% completion rate for corn planting was up from last year and the five-year average, both of which were 16%. For corn, Iowa was 40% planted, Illinois 42% and Indiana 11%. The only emergence in those states was Illinois, at 4%.

The 3% pace for soybeans was up from both last year's pace and the five-year average of 2%.

Winter wheat conditions improved, as expected, to 59% versus 57% the previous week as rain in April helped the crop recover from drought and a few freeze events. Kansas wheat in good/excellent condition went from 49% last week to 53% this week, Oklahoma went from 56% to 59% and Texas went from 45% to 48%.

“My yield model increased wheat production potential around one-third of a bushel nationwide, increasing projected yield to 47.4-47.7 (bu. per acre), depending on the model. Most states showed gains,” Farm Futures senior grain analyst Bryce Knorr said. “The pace of corn planting also picked up ahead of a wet week or two. Soybean planters are rolling, but not on the Plains or far eastern Midwest yet.”

The Kansas report said the state received up to 3 in. of rain in the northwest and lesser amounts elsewhere, and topsoil moisture improved to 8% surplus, 74% adequate, 13% short and 5% very short.

Spring wheat planting went to 42% versus 50% a year ago the 28% average. Eight percent of the crop was emerged — the same as last year but up from the 7% average.

Nationally, sorghum was 20% planted versus 23% a year ago and the 24% average.

Cotton was 10% planted versus 9% a year ago and the 13% average.