By Scout Nelson
The latest Kansas crop progress and condition report provides important updates on fieldwork, soil moisture, and crop development for the week ending April 12, 2026. Farmers had about 5.7 days suitable for fieldwork, allowing steady progress in planting and crop management activities.
Soil moisture levels showed mixed conditions across the state. Topsoil moisture was rated 28 percent very short and 32 percent short, indicating dry conditions in many areas. Meanwhile, 36 percent was considered adequate and a 4 percent surplus.
Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern, with 21 percent rated very short, 36 percent short, 41 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. These conditions suggest that moisture availability remains a concern for some regions.
Winter wheat conditions vary widely. About 12 percent of the crop was rated very poor, while 20 percent was poor. The largest portion, 36 percent, was rated fairly. However, 30 percent of the crop was in good condition and 2 percent was rated excellent. This shows that while some areas are struggling, others are experiencing better crop performance.
Wheat development is progressing well compared to previous years. Approximately 61 percent of the winter wheat crop has reached the jointing stage. This is significantly ahead of 43 percent at the same time last year and well above the five-year average of 33 percent. This early development could benefit crop yields if favorable conditions continue.
Planting progress for other crops is also underway. Corn planting reached 9 percent, which is close to last year’s pace and the five-year average. Soybean planting was at 2 percent, slightly above the average of 1 percent, indicating an early start in some areas.
Overall, Kansas crops are showing steady progress despite moisture challenges. Continued monitoring of weather conditions will be important to support healthy crop growth in the coming weeks.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Corn, Wheat, Weather