88% of the U.S. corn crop is seeded, below expectations, USDA reports

INDIANOLA, Iowa — While planting paces fall below expectations, the U.S. corn and soybean crops are coming out of the ground faster than their averages, according to the USDA Monday.

On Monday, the USDA released its Cop Progress Report that shows U.S. farmers have 88% of the corn crop in the ground, ahead of a five-year average of 82%, but below the trade's expectation of 90%.

Individual states such as North Dakota and South Dakota have just 54% and 86% planted, respectively.

Meanwhile, 64% of the nation's corn has emerged vs. a 58% five-year average.

In its first one of the year, the USDA estimates the corn good/excellent rating at 70%.

Soybeans

USDA rated the nation's soybean planting completion rate at 65% vs. a 55% five-year average, but below the trade's expectation of 70%.

Meanwhile, 35% of the U.S. soybean crop has emerged vs. a 27% five-year average.

Wheat

In its report Monday, the USDA rated the U.S. winter wheat crop as 52% good/excellent, lower than 53% a week ago.

Crop progress and condition estimates are based on survey data collected each week from early April through the end of November, according to the USDA report.

"The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input from approximately 3,600 respondents whose occupations provide them opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They also provide subjective evaluations of crop conditions," the USDA stated in its Monday report.

Most respondents complete their questionnaires on Friday or early Monday morning and submit them to the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) Field Offices in their States by mail, telephone, fax, e-mail, or through a secured internet website. A small number of reports are completed on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, according to the USDA report.