Below normal temperatures last week delayed planting for some farmers but led to accelerated planting near the weekend, according to the latest Crop Progress and Condition report from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Iowa farmers had 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork, which included applying anhydrous and dry fertilizer, tilling fields, and planting. Twenty percent of the state’s corn crop has been planted, one day behind the five year average, and 6% of soybean crops are planted, three days ahead of normal. Topsoil moisture levels rated 6% very short, 28% short, 64% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 10% very short, 35% short, 54% adequate, and 1% surplus. Pasture condition rated 45% good to excellent, and calving is going reportedly well with cattle on pastures.