U.S. Corn Declines 1% to 51% Gd/Ex, Soybeans Unchanged at 52%

The condition of the 2023 U.S. corn crop declined 1% last week to 51% rated good/excellent. Seven states indicated that the condition improved last week, 9 states indicated that the condition declined last week, and 2 were unchanged. Most of the improvements were found in the northern and southern areas while most of the declines were found in the central and western areas. The top five rated corn states are: Pennsylvania, Ohio, Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina. The five lowest rated corn states are: Missouri, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Illinois.

The corn crop is maturing quickly with 54% mature compared to 38% last year and 44% average. The condition of the corn at this point is slightly lower than 2022.

The condition of the 2023 U.S. soybean crop was unchanged last week at 52% rated good/excellent. Eight states indicated that the condition improved last week, 8 states indicated that the condition declined last week, and 2 were unchanged. Most of the improvements were found in the northern and southern areas while most of the declines were found in the central and western areas. The top five rated soybean states are: Arkansas, Tennessee, Ohio, Kentucky, and Mississippi. The five lowest rated soybean states are: Kansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, Missouri, and North Dakota.

The soybeans are maturing quickly with 54% dropping leaves compared to 39% last year and 43% average. The late summer dryness has accelerated the maturity of the crop which is now rated lower than 2022.

The nation’s topsoil moisture declined last week with 4 states indicating improved soil moisture, 12 states indicating lower soil moisture, and 2 unchanged. Most of the improvements were found in the western areas while most of the declines were found in the central, eastern, and southern areas. The five states with the highest soil moisture are: Michigan, North Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, and Kentucky. The five states with the lowest soil moisture are: Louisiana, Iowa, Mississippi, Minnesota, and Kansas.

The topsoil moisture is ending the growing season significantly dryer than last year and average. Even if the topsoil moisture improved going forward, the crops are far enough along in their maturity, that improved soil moisture would have a minimal impact on the yield potential.

Tags: corn, condition, soybeans, crop, U.S., soil moisture