The condition of corn and soybeans showed no appreciable change in the past week and both crops remain largely in “good” or “excellent” condition going into August. If anything, both remain ahead of historic averages in terms of development.

According to USDA’s Crop Progress report for July 24, 79% of corn is silking. This compares with 71% silking one year ago on this date and 5-year average of 70%. According the ag agency’s most recent data, 57% of corn acres are in “good” condition and 19% in “excellent” condition as of last Sunday. Last year at this time, 53% of corn was rated as “good” and 17% as “excellent.”

Soybean development is also significantly above past reports for July 24. In all, USDA is reporting that 76% of soybeans are blooming vs. 67% a year earlier and the 5-year average of 66%. Condition of the crop also remains above past ratings for this date. Overall, 56% of soybean acres are rated as “good” and 15% as “excellent.” This compares with 49% “good” and 13% “excellent” a year ago.