USDA reported this afternoon that as of May 4, 29% of corn acreage has been planted in the 18 states that planted 91% of corn acreage in 2013. This compares with 19% a week earlier and 11% a year ago on this date. The 5 year average (2009-2013) for corn plantings is 42%

The ag agency also reported that the 7% of corn had emerged as of May 4. This compares with 3% a week earlier and 3% on May 4, 2013. The 5 year average is 13% emerged as of May 4.

USDA also reported its initial progress of soybean plantings. For the 18 states that planted 95% of soybean acreage in 2013, 5% was in the ground as of May 4. This compares to 3% a week earlier and 2% a year ago. The 5 year average for this date is 11%.