The U.S. corn crop development has accelerated significantly over the past week, with 56% of corn now in the silking stage across the 18 major producing states, according to the latest Crop Progress report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
This represents a substantial jump from 34% reported last week, though it remains slightly behind last year’s pace of 58% and the five-year average of 58%. The report indicates corn entering the dough stage has also progressed, though specific percentages were not detailed in the excerpt provided.
Regional variations show significant differences in crop development. Illinois reported 79% of its corn crop in the silking stage, up from 46% last week, while Minnesota showed slower progress at 44%, though this marks a substantial improvement from 19% the previous week. Colorado experienced a notable decline in conditions, while Minnesota, Ohio, and South Dakota each showed 3% improvements in their overall ratings.
“The current development stages are critical for determining final yield potential,” said an agricultural economist familiar with the report. “The dough stage, which follows silking by about four weeks, represents a crucial phase when kernels are developing and moisture content is approximately 70%.”
The report comes as market conditions show planted acreage up 5% year-over-year to 86.8 million acres, while grain stocks have decreased 7% to 4.64 billion bushels. With 74% of the crop currently rated good to excellent, the outlook remains positive despite regional challenges.
Weather conditions in the coming weeks will be crucial as crops progress through these vital development stages, with potential implications for final yields and market prices heading into harvest season.
