Planting progress for corn and other key crops across major U.S. agricultural states remains behind the five-year average as farmers continue spring fieldwork, according to the USDA’s latest Crop Progress report released April 20, 2026.
Corn planting in 18 selected states, which account for 91% of the nation’s corn acreage, reached 11% as of April 19, 2026, compared to the 9% average for the same week over the past five years. Corn emergence was reported at 4%, double the five-year average of just 2%.
Soybean planting, covering 18 states responsible for 96% of U.S. soybean acreage, showed steady advancement with 12% planted by April 19, vastly outpacing the average of 5%. Cotton planting in 15 states reached 11%, in step with the 10% average.
Other crops showed varied progress. Sorghum planting in was at 15%, rice planting reached 56%, and winter wheat heading was reported at 20%. Winter wheat condition ratings remained questionable, with 29% rated good and 5% excellent.
Topsoil moisture conditions across 48 states were reported as 49% adequate and 25% short, while subsoil moisture was 48% adequate and 27% short. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.39 days nationally for the week ending April 19.
The report is based on weekly surveys from approximately 3,600 respondents who provide visual observations and farmer contacts. Data are reviewed for consistency and weighted by acreage to produce state and national estimates.
