By Jamie Martin
Nebraska producers reported strong planting activity for the week ending May 11, 2026, supported by 6.1 suitable days for fieldwork. Corn and soybean planting moved ahead of the five-year average, reflecting steady progress in field operations.
Corn planting reached 82%, close to last year’s pace and above the five-year average. Corn emergence stood at 42%, showing improvement over average levels despite being behind last year. Soybean planting reached 81%, surpassing both last year and average levels, while emergence was recorded at 33%.
Sorghum planting showed slower progress at 12%, remaining below both last year and at the typical pace. Oats planting was nearly complete at 97%, but emergence lagged at 65%. Crop conditions for oats remained mostly poor to fair, indicating challenges in development.
Winter wheat showed strong advancement, with 50% of the crop headed, well ahead of normal progress. However, crop condition ratings were low, with most classified as very poor or poor, reflecting the impact of dry conditions.
Soil moisture levels continued to decline. A large share of both topsoil and subsoil moisture was rated very short or short, limiting crop growth and development. These dry conditions also affected pasture and range, with most areas reporting poor conditions.
Overall, while planting activities are progressing well, drought stress remains a significant challenge for Nebraska farmers. Data for this report was compiled by USDA Farm Service Agency, Nebraska Extension, and field reporters statewide.
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Categories: National