By Scout Nelson
Kansas crop progress and condition data for the week ending January 4, 2026, shows generally stable soil moisture levels and encouraging winter wheat conditions across the state. The report was released by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and provides an overview of current field conditions.
Topsoil moisture supplies were rated 12 percent very short and 32 percent short, indicating some dry areas remain. However, a majority of topsoil moisture was rated positively, with 52 percent considered adequate and 4 percent listed as surplus. These levels suggest that most fields have sufficient moisture to support winter crops.
Subsoil moisture conditions followed a similar pattern. Ten percent of subsoil moisture was rated very short, while 30 percent was rated short. At the same time, 56 percent of subsoil moisture was reported as adequate, and 4 percent was surplus. Adequate subsoil moisture is important for sustaining crops during colder months when surface moisture may be limited.
The field crops report focused mainly on winter wheat, which is a major crop in Kansas. Winter wheat condition ratings showed only 2 percent rated very poor and 7 percent rated poor. A moderate portion of the crop, 31 percent, was rated fair. Stronger ratings dominated the report, with 49 percent of winter wheat rated good and 11 percent rated excellent.
These ratings indicate that most of the winter wheat crop is in good shape as it enters the heart of winter. Adequate soil moisture helps protect plants from stress and supports root development during dormancy.
While some areas continue to face moisture challenges, the overall outlook remains stable. Weather conditions in the coming weeks will play an important role in maintaining crop health. Continued monitoring of moisture levels will help determine how well crops progress toward spring.
Regular crop condition reports like this one help provide insight into current agricultural conditions. They support planning decisions and help track trends that affect crop growth and food production across the state.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat, Weather