Corn and Soybeans Lead Nebraska Progress

By Scout Nelson

For the week ending May 25, 2025, Nebraska recorded 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Weather conditions allowed planting and emergence to continue across the state.

Topsoil moisture was reported as 17 percent very short, 33 percent short, 48 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were also low, rated 27 percent very short, 41 percent short, and 32 percent adequate, with no surplus recorded.

Corn planting was nearly complete at 95 percent, ahead of last year and close to the five-year average. Corn emergence was 77 percent, well above last year and the average pace. Corn condition ratings were strong, with 70 percent rated good to excellent.

Soybeans were planted 91 percent, outpacing last year and the five-year average. The emergence reached 63 percent, showing strong early growth. Soybean condition was also positive, with 72 percent rated good to excellent.

Winter wheat continued to head, reaching 60 percent—well above both last year and the five-year average. However, wheat condition ratings were low, with only 19 percent rated good to excellent and 53 percent rated poor or very poor.

Sorghum planting reached 27 percent, slightly behind the five-year average. Oats were 92 percent emerged, and 9 percent headed, tracking close to historical trends. Oats condition showed a mixed picture, with 35 percent rated good to excellent.

Dry edible bean planting moved quickly, reaching 56 percent, well ahead of both last year and the average.

Pasture and range conditions showed signs of stress, with 51 percent rated poor or very poor and only 17 percent in good condition. Moisture remains a key concern for continued progress in Nebraska agriculture.

Photo Credit:usda