Illinois crops are sprouting earlier than average this planting season.
As of Sunday, the USDA reports 59% of corn had emerged compared to 40% at this time last year and 48% averaged over the past 5 years. Similarly, 40% of soybeans have emerged compared to just 19% at this time last year and 16% on average.
Planting also remains ahead of average with 86% of corn and 74% of soybeans in the ground.
