Though not a significant fall off compared to the previous week, the condition of the U.S. corn and soybean crops declined slightly.

According to USDA’s Crop Progress report for July 16, the condition of corn acreage was 64% “good” (51%) or “excellent” (13%). The previous week, 65% of the crop was rated as “good” (52%) or “excellent” (13%).

The number of corn acres “silking” was also down from the previous year and behind the 5-year average. The ag agency is reporting that currently 40% of corn acres are silking vs. 53% for this date a year ago and the 5-year average of 47%.

According to USDA, 61% of the soybean crop is considered “good” (51%) or “excellent” (10%). This is one point behind a week earlier when 62% was rated as “good” (52%) or “excellent” (10%). The current rating is significantly behind a year ago when 71% of soybeans were said to be “good” (57%) or “excellent” (14%).

As far as progress goes, 52% of soybean acres are “blooming.” This compares with 56% last year on this date and the 5-year average of 51%. Also, 16% of soybeans are “setting pods” vs. the same percentage a year ago and 5-year average of only 13%.