Nebraska Corn and Soybeans Surge Ahead

By Scout Nelson

For the week ending May 11, 2025, Nebraska had 6.6 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Despite dry conditions, fieldwork moved ahead at a steady pace.

Topsoil moisture was reported as 34 percent very short and 42 percent short, leaving only 24 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was similar, with 35 percent very short and 43 percent short.

Corn planting reached 73 percent, well ahead of 52 percent last year and above the five-year average of 65 percent. Corn emergence stood at 36 percent, ahead of both last year and average.

Soybean planting was also strong at 62 percent, compared to 34 percent last year and 46 percent average. Soybean emergence reached 19 percent, more than doubling last year’s 8 percent.

Winter wheat development showed slower progress. Just 2 percent of the crop was headed, near both last year and average. However, wheat conditions varied, with only 4 percent rated excellent and 27 percent very poor.

Sorghum planting was reported at 17 percent, well ahead of 5 percent last year and the 8 percent average.

Oats planting remained on track, with 93 percent planted—matching last year and the five-year average. Oats emergence was 77 percent, close to the usual pace. Oat condition was mixed, with 30 percent rated poor or very poor and only 2 percent excellent.

Pasture and range conditions were challenged by the dry weather. Only 15 percent were rated good, with 52 percent falling under poor or very poor.

Even with limited moisture, Nebraska’s planting progress remains strong across key crops, keeping the season on schedule.

Photo Credit:usda