Winter Wheat Planting Slightly Ahead Of Schedule

According to the USDA, 20% of winter wheat plantings were complete by Sunday, September 20th. USDA metorologist Brad Rippey said that's one percentage point ahead of the 5-year average [of 19%] and two points ahead of numbers reported last year.

"We see three states that have reached the 40% mark for winter wheat planting. Leading the way is Washington state at 49%, followed by Colorado at 45%, and the third state on that list is Nebraska with 40% planted," Rippey noted. He added the only major production states that have not yet planted an acre of winter wheat at this point are Arkansas, Illinois and Missouri. He said it is not unusual to see those areas plant later in the year.

When it comes to the first look at at winter wheat emergence, Rippey said 3% of the crop is up, copared to the five-year average of 2%, and 2019's 2% emergence.

"Earlier areas emerging quickly are Washington state 16% emerged, and Colorado 13% emerged."

Rippey added there are some concerns as the crop begins to emerge about drought especially out here in the west, as well as the high plains.

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