FNC News

As we move into the heart of the growing season, U.S. farmers have largely wrapped up spring planting across the Corn Belt and nationwide, with overall progress tracking near or slightly ahead of historical averages. Corn planting is essentially complete at roughly 97%, while soybean planting has moved past the 90% mark nationwide.  

Planting Window & Conditions 

The 2026 planting season generally provided a favorable window across much of the U.S., not just in the Midwest but also extending into the Plains and parts of the South. Early fieldwork began in April, with southern regions getting an earlier start, while the central and northern Corn Belt followed with peak activity from late April through mid-May, typically the ideal window for corn. 

Across the Delta and Southeast, periodic rains slowed progress at times but also supported soil moisture heading into emergence. In the Plains, conditions were more mixed, with some areas battling early-season dryness while others benefited from timely precipitation. Further west, intermittent moisture patterns created uneven planting conditions, particularly in drier pockets.

Overall, most growers were able to stay near a normal planting pace, with minimal widespread disruptions. This combination of timely planting and generally adequate early moisture has helped set up a solid foundation for crop development nationwide as we transition into the summer growing season. 

Current Crop Conditions 

Crop ratings to date have been encouraging. Approximately two-thirds of the U.S. corn crop is currently rated good to excellent, with soybean conditions also holding steady at favorable levels.  

Emergence has progressed well, and early stand establishment has benefited from moderate temperatures and timely rainfall across much of the Corn Belt. While pockets of stress remain in drier regions, the majority of U.S. crops are entering the summer growing phase in solid condition. 

Wheat Snapshot 

Wheat acreage continues to trend lower in 2026, with total planted area estimated at around 43.8 million acres which is down roughly 3% from last year. 

Winter wheat development progressed well this spring, though condition ratings have been more variable, particularly in areas that experienced earlier-season dryness. 

Weather Outlook & El Niño Influence 

A key factor shaping this year’s outlook is the emergence of an El Niño weather pattern, officially confirmed in June 2026.  

El Niño is expected to bring a more active weather pattern, including slightly above-average rainfall and moderate temperatures across much of the Midwest and broader agricultural regions.  

For crop production, that generally translates into a supportive environment, particularly if July delivers the moisture needed during corn pollination. However, variability remains, with some risk of localized flooding or heat episodes, especially in the northern Corn Belt. 

Bottom Line 

The 2026 growing season is off to a strong start. Timely planting, solid early crop conditions, and a generally favorable weather outlook provide optimism heading into the critical summer months. As always, the next 60 days, weather during pollination and early reproductive stages will play the biggest role in determining final yields.  Farmers National Company continues to monitor crop progress and weather patterns closely on all the farms we manage and keep our clients informed on what we are observing!  We regularly visit individual farms and send personalized reports with photos of the crop and improvement work we do on behalf of our clients. 

Learn more about our Farm Management Services: farmersnational.com/farm-and-ranch/