By Andi Anderson
Indiana farmers planted 5.10 million acres of corn for all purposes in 2024, a 6 percent decrease from last year, according to Nathanial Warenski, State Statistician, USDA NASS, Indiana Field Office. Heavy rainfall in early April hindered fieldwork and planting across the state.
However, warmer temperatures and normal precipitation levels during May allowed corn planting and emergence to progress ahead of the five-year average by June 2. By that time, 71 percent of corn acreage was rated in good to excellent condition. Corn acreage expected to be harvested for grain totaled 4.96 million acres, a 7 percent drop from last year.
Soybean acreage planted or intended for all purposes in Indiana is estimated at 5.75 million acres, marking a 5 percent increase from last year. Soybean acreage expected to be harvested totals 5.73 million acres, also up 5 percent from the previous year.
Winter wheat planted acres in Indiana totaled 320,000, reflecting a 21 percent decrease from the previous year. The area expected to be harvested for grain is 250,000 acres, down 25 percent from a year ago. Wheat yield and production updates will be provided in the July 12 Crop Report.
In 2024, producers expect to harvest 530,000 acres of dry hay. Alfalfa hay acreage is at 260,000 acres, down 10,000 acres from last year, while all other dry hay acreage stands at 270,000 acres, up 10,000 acres from 2023.
Nationally, corn planted area for all purposes in 2024 is estimated at 91.5 million acres, a 3 percent decrease or 3.17 million acres less than last year.
This represents the eighth highest planted acreage in the United States since 1944. Compared with last year, planted acreage is expected to be down or unchanged in 31 of the 48 estimating states. Area harvested for grain is projected at 83.4 million acres, down 4 percent from last year.
U.S. soybean planted area for 2024 is estimated at 86.1 million acres, a 3 percent increase from last year. Compared with last year, planted acreage is up or unchanged in 24 of the 29 estimating states.
The 2024 winter wheat planted area, at 33.8 million acres, is down 8 percent from last year and down 1 percent from the previous estimate. Of this total, approximately 24.1 million acres are Hard Red Winter, 6.14 million acres are Soft Red Winter, and 3.59 million acres are White Winter.
Indiana's farmers are adapting to changing weather conditions and market demands, leading to adjustments in crop acreage for 2024. Despite early challenges, the state's agriculture sector continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Weather