USDA noted no change in the strong conditions for both corn and soybeans in its July 29 Crop Progress report.

Bother crops held steady, with corn conditions reported as 72% “good” (50%) and “excellent” (22%), the same exact reading as the previous week. This compares with the 5 year average of 61% “good” (48%) and “excellent” (13%). As far as maturity, 91% of corn acres are reported to be silking vs. 81% a week earlier, 82% a year ago and the average between 2013-17 of 82%.

USDA reported that 38% of the corn crop is at the dough stage, which is up from 18% the previous week, 21% last year on this date, and the 5 year average of 20%.

For soybeans, 86% are reported to be blooming compared with 78% last week, 80% a year ago and the 5 year average of 77%. Some 60% of soybean acres are reported to be setting pods. This is up from the previous week’s 60%, last year’s 45% and the 5 year average for this date of 41%.