By Andi Anderson
As of May 4, 2025, Indiana farmers are facing delays in planting due to wet field conditions. Only 3.8 days were suitable for fieldwork last week, making it difficult for many producers to make steady planting progress.
Soil moisture levels remain high across the state. Topsoil moisture was reported as 2% very short, 5% short, 66% adequate, and 27% surplus. Subsoil moisture followed closely with 3% very short, 13% short, 66% adequate, and 18% surplus.
These conditions show that although most areas have sufficient moisture, surplus water is limiting planting activity.
Corn planting is 26% complete, up from 10% the previous week but still slightly behind the five-year average of 25%. Only 6% of corn has emerged, close to the 5% emergence average.
Soybean planting also progressed to 25%, well above last week's 10% and the five-year average of 20%. However, soybean emergence remains at just 2%, slightly below the five-year average of 3%.
Winter wheat is progressing well. About 64% of the crop has jointed, and 12% has headed. Crop condition ratings show that 2% of the wheat is very poor, 4% poor, 25% fair, 55% good, and 14% excellent. Range and pasture conditions are also strong, with 60% rated good and 11% excellent.
This report from the USDA’s Great Lakes Regional Field Office will be the second-last state-level issue. Future updates will be available through the national report online.
Despite recent challenges, Indiana’s crop outlook remains positive, with solid winter wheat and pasture ratings and encouraging soybean progress. With improved weather, planting may continue to advance in the coming days.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-orientaly
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Wheat