Soy Food Crop Update

Southern Wisconsin/ Northern Illinois Soybean Crop Update

Soybeans across southern Wisconsin & northern Illinois are primarily in the vegetative growth stages, ranging from V2 to V5 depending on the planted date. According to the USDA's initial condition ratings, 79% of the soybean crop is rated in good-to-excellent condition—on par with the five-year average for Wisconsin. Southern Wisconsin is slightly ahead in development due to warmer-than-average temperatures, while cooler conditions in northern parts of the state are contributing to slower crop progress.  USDA has reported Illinois soybean crop 69% of the soybean crop is rated good-to-excellent condition.  Recent rainfall in our draw areas has helped improve overall soil moisture levels, though pockets of dryness remain. Forecasts for the coming week indicate cooler and drier-than-normal conditions across the region, which may slow growth in some fields.

Thus far, no widespread disease or pest problems have been reported in southern Wisconsin. However, regular scouting remains important, particularly as conditions shift. Weed pressure is beginning to build, with ragweed and other common species emerging. Timely herbicide applications and integrated weed management strategies will be key in minimizing competition and preserving yield potential. Overall, crop conditions remain favorable for strong yields, provided that growers continue proactive monitoring and timely rainfall throughout the remainder of the growing season.

Update provided by Cameron Hilgenberg, DeLong Company, June 11^th.  

North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin

Most soybean planting is complete across North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin.  The crop is off to a slow start due to below average temperatures, but we do have adequate soil moisture, so as the temperatures rise, we should be in good shape.  

Report provided by Scott Sinner, SB&B Foods, June 10, 2025 

Midwest

Planting is pretty much wrapped up across the Midwest as we head into summer. A few farmers are still out there finishing up, but most are done with their 2025 crops.

Here in the Chicagoland area, it’s been warm lately—highs in the 80s, lows in the 60s. We’ve had a mix of sunny days, some rain, and a few storms here and there. It’s made things a little tricky for planting, but farmers are making it work.

Report provided by Addison Rucker, Scoular, June 10^th.  

Ohio/Pennsylvania Update 

No soybeans have been planted yet in Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. A small amount of corn has been planted, but much of it will likely need to be replanted, either entirely or in sections. 

Since May 1st, the region has received 4–6 inches of rain, causing planting delays. While late starts are not unusual for Northeast Ohio, the persistent wet conditions have slowed progress. We are not overly concerned with the late start affecting the quality of 2025 crop soybeans.  

Although we're slightly concerned about the calendar moving forward, our primary worry is that once things dry out enough to plant the weather may shift and remain too dry. 

Report provided by Schwartz Farms, May 8 

Midwest

Planting is gradually getting underway here in the Midwest. After speaking with several producers in the area, most farmers should be up and running by the end of May. The weather over the past few weeks has been a roller coaster with below average temps followed but short warm fronts.

The month of April in Illinois has experienced lows of 20 degrees and highs of 80 degrees. April saw about 23 tornadoes and some pretty strong winds, making it a rough month weather-wise. Around the Andres, Illinois facility we have received around 2.5 inches of rainfall this month.

The Weather outlook for the next 2 weeks look favorable for good planting conditions. If Mother Nature holds up her end of the bargain.

Report provided by Addison Rucker, Scoular, May 5, 2025

Midwest 

As of early April, planting activity has been fairly limited across the region. Some of the southern areas of the Midwest have gotten a start, but overall, producers in Andres, IL, and Covington, OH are holding off. Many are waiting for drier conditions and warmer weather before heading into the fields. 

The past couple of weeks have brought some thunderstorms, and there's hope for more rain in Northern Illinois and parts of Indiana. These showers are especially welcome as the region continues to come off the drought monitor. 

Report provided by Addison Rucker, Scoular, April 8^th.  

Wisconsin  

Most individuals are completing their field preparation work in readiness for planting this/next week.  We are observing some of the larger growers beginning to plant food-grade beans in the area. Although it is not extensive at this moment, there will be a significant increase in planting activity as temperatures rise this week and next week. However, this week's forecast indicates higher chances of rain, which could hinder some fieldwork and planting in Southern Wisconsin.  The soil temperature remains slightly cool based on recent discussions with growers.  I anticipate significant progress in soybean planting for southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois over the next two weeks. 

North Dakota 

There has been no soybean planting in the upper great plains.  Some farmers are just starting planting small grains and sugar beets, but very little corn has been planted either. 

The weather recently has been below normal temperatures and slightly wetter than normal.  Soil temps are still on the cool side.  The pattern is expected to continue for the next 7 days, so don't see any great planting windows in the near future.   

Report provided by: Scott Sinner, SB&B Foods, April 18, 2025