Planting progress across Nebraska and Kansas accelerated sharply during the past week, but the latest USDA Crop Progress report shows dry soil conditions remain the central storyline across the Great Plains. Keep in mind data was compiled as of Sunday, April 26 before a round of rain showers.
Nebraska: Fast Planting Pace, Tight Moisture
Corn planting in Nebraska reached 26 percent complete by April 26, well ahead of the five‑year average of 16 percent. Soybean planting also surged to 19 percent, more than double the normal pace for late April. Producers reported 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork, allowing planters to roll across much of the state.
Despite the strong progress, soil moisture remains limited. Nebraska topsoil moisture is rated 43 percent very short and 30 percent short, while subsoil moisture is 40 percent very short and 40 percent short. Those conditions increase concerns for crop emergence and early‑season development if rainfall remains scarce.
Kansas: Soybeans and Sorghum Move Ahead
In Kansas, corn planting advanced to 29 percent complete, right in line with the seasonal average. Soybean planting reached 15 percent, well ahead of the five‑year average of 8 percent, and sorghum planting began at 4 percent complete. Growers logged 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork.
Kansas moisture conditions remain strained, with about six out of ten acres rated short to very short on both topsoil and subsoil moisture. Winter wheat condition continues to reflect that stress, with only 23 percent rated good to excellent, while 41 percent is rated poor to very poor, even as heading advances quickly.
National Snapshot
Across the major producing states, corn planting reached 25 percent complete, ahead of the five‑year average of 19 percent. Soybeans moved to 23 percent planted, nearly double the normal pace. Much of that progress has been driven by dry, workable conditions across the central U.S.
Looking Ahead
With planting momentum strong but soil moisture limited, rainfall timing will be critical in the weeks ahead. While producers across Nebraska and Kansas are off to a fast start, meaningful spring moisture will be key to supporting emergence, pasture and range conditions, and overall yield potential as the growing season unfolds.
