Winter Wheat Heading Behind Schedule Nationally

When it comes to the national pace of winter wheat heading, things are slightly behind schedule.

"We're seeing just 27% of the over winter wheat crop headed on May 2nd. That's well behind the 5-year average pace of 34%. Also behind last year's 30%."

USDA Meteorologist, Brad Rippey, said there are signs of heading in the major central plains production areas. 

"In Kansas, the #1 winter wheat state, 12% headed on May 2nd that is behind the 5-year average of 27% slightly behind last year's pace at this time."

Meanwhile, winter wheat conditions have stabilized after the late April freezes and cold weather.

"The national condition, 48% good to excellent, that is a one point drop from last week. Not much and no change in the very poor to poor ratings; steady at 19%. So as a result, this year's crop currently rated lower than the crop was this time a year ago."

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