Planting progress dampened, still well ahead of average overall

Ohio farmers made progress where conditions allowed last week, but fieldwork remained limited compared to many neighboring states.

USDA says 33% of Ohio corn was planted as of May 3, up from 20% the week before and ahead of the five-year average of 15%. Corn emergence reached 12%, also ahead of the 3% average.

Soybean planting also moved forward, with 30% of Ohio soybeans planted, compared to 19% last week and 14% on average. Soybeans emerged were reported at 10%, well ahead of the 2% five-year average.

Ohio winter wheat was 1% headed, behind the 3% average. The crop was rated 66% good to excellent, with 53% good and 13% excellent.

Oats were 53% planted, behind the 70% average, while 30% had emerged, compared to the 35% average.

Ohio had just 1.9 days suitable for fieldwork last week. Topsoil moisture was rated 10% very short, 4% short, 60% adequate and 26% surplus, while subsoil moisture was 12% very short, 11% short, 64% adequate and 13% surplus.

Click here to read the full report from USDA NASS.