By Scout Nelson
Minnesota farmers averaged 4.1 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 27, 2025, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Rainfall in the southern parts of the state reduced this average and delayed some field operations.
Despite weather challenges, many farmers continued key spring activities. This included spring tillage, manure hauling, fertilizer application, rock picking, and planting. Encouragingly, there were no livestock-related issues reported across the region.
Topsoil moisture levels were recorded as 3 percent very short, 19 percent short, 68 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were slightly more strained, with 4 percent very short, 31 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus.
Corn planting reached 26 percent completion—matching last year’s progress and ahead of the five-year average by two days. Soybean planting was at 13 percent, keeping pace with the same time in 2024. This aligns with recent trends, as soybean planting typically reaches 13 percent by May 1.
Progress in other crops varied. Barley planting stood at 9 percent, oats at 33 percent, and spring wheat at 14 percent. An estimated 6 percent of this year’s oat crop had already emerged.
Specialty crops also moved forward. Potato planting was reported at 17 percent, while sugar beets reached 44 percent. These figures reflect steady progress given the early spring conditions and regional rainfall variations.
Overall, while southern Minnesota experienced setbacks due to rain, much of the state-maintained momentum in planting and preparation. The combination of adequate soil moisture and minimal livestock issues provided a positive outlook for ongoing fieldwork across the state.
Photo Credit:
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Sugar Beets, Weather