Nebraska producers made gradual planting progress during the week ending April 19, 2026, taking advantage of 6.1 days suitable for fieldwork despite intensifying dryness across the state. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 47% very short, 35% short, 18% adequate and 0% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 46% very short, 37% short, 17% adequate and 0% surplus — keeping drought concerns front and center as the growing season begins.
Field Crops Report:
- Corn
- Planted: 8% — near 7% last year and 5% for the five-year average.
- Soybean
- Planted: 2% — equal to last year and near 1% for the five-year average
- Winter Wheat
- Condition: 14% very poor, 31% poor, 44% fair, 11% good, 0% excellent
- Oats
- Planted: 61% — slightly behind 68% last year and 66% for the five-year average.
- Emerged: 13% — behind 26% last year and 24% average.
Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency, Nebraska Extension, and other reporters across the state.
