Missouri crop progress report

By Blake Jackson

In the week ending August 25, 2024, Missouri experienced favorable conditions for fieldwork with 6.2 days suitable for agricultural activities.

The statewide average temperature was 72.2 degrees, which was 3.8 degrees below normal. Precipitation during this period averaged 0.35 inches, slightly below the typical amount by 0.30 inches.

Topsoil moisture levels were reported as 2% very short, 22% short, 72% adequate, and 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture was slightly better, with 1% very short, 18% short, 73% adequate, and 8% surplus.

Corn crops showed significant progress, with 95% of the crop reaching the dough stage, which is above the five-year average of 92%.

The percentage of corn dented was 75%, compared to the average of 63%, and 17% of the corn had reached maturity, surpassing the five-year average of 6%.

Harvesting for grain had commenced on 2% of the corn crop. Corn conditions were varied, with 4% rated very poor, 5% poor, 13% fair, 55% good, and 23% excellent.

Soybean crops were also advancing, with 92% blooming, matching the five-year average, and 79% setting pods, slightly above the average of 77%.

Soybeans had begun dropping leaves, with 5% of the crop at this stage. Soybean conditions showed 3% very poor, 5% poor, 17% fair, 58% good, and 17% excellent.

Cotton development was progressing with 90% of the crop setting bolls, close to the five-year average of 91%, and 5% of the bolls opening, slightly above the average of 4%. Cotton conditions were rated 4% very poor, 8% poor, 31% fair, and 57% good.

Rice crops were ahead of schedule, with 95% headed and 7% harvested, compared to the averages of 91% and 1%, respectively. Rice conditions were generally favorable with 70% rated good.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki