USDA Crop Report Shows Steady Corn Development and Declining Wheat Quality

USDA Releases 2025 Crop Progress Report Highlighting Current Status of Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, and Oats The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled its 18th weekly crop progress report for the 2025 growing season, providing insights into the development and health of key crops nationwide. Corn cultivation is progressing steadily, with 88% of the crop in the leading 18 states reaching the silking stage as of August 3rd, just below the five-year average of 89%. Additionally, 42% of the corn has entered the dough stage, surpassing the 40% five-year average, and 6% has reached the dent stage—aligning with historical norms. The overall condition of the corn crop is rated at 73% good or excellent, 20% fair, and 7% poor or very poor. Soybean development shows that by early August, 85% of the crop in the top 18 states has bloomed, slightly behind the five-year average by a percentage point. Meanwhile, 58% are setting pods, consistent with historical averages. The soybean crop's condition is rated at 69% good or excellent, 24% fair, and 7% poor or very poor. Notably, U.S. soybean export sales have reached a 20-year low. Harvesting of winter wheat is nearing completio...