Weather Slowed U.S. Plantings Last Week; Northern States Feel the Most Impact

After making up significant ground during the previous week, last week saw another slowdown in getting corn in the ground.

Overall on May 18, 73% of corn acres were planted in the 18 states that accounted for 91% of all corn acreage last year, according to USDA. This is only 3% below the 5-year average of 76%, but is well ahead of the 59% planted a week earlier. It’s also ahead of last year’s pace, which saw 65% planted at this time in 2013.

Cold temperatures and continuing rains are impacting the northern states of Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin where are all 20% or more behind their 5-year average.

USDA also reported that 34% of corn had emerged by May 18. This compares with 18% the previous week, 17% a year ago and the 42% average over the past 5 years.

As for soybeans, 33% was in the ground as of May 18 vs. 20% a week earlier and 21% a year ago. Soybean plantings are 5% the 5-year average of 38%.

According to USDA, 9% of soybeans have emerged vs. 3% a year earlier and the 5-year average of 11%.