The USDA’s Second Crop Progress Report: Winter Wheat Heading Trends

The USDA’s second Crop Progress report of the season, released on April 14, highlights the steady progress of winter wheat heading in select states. California, Texas, and Arkansas are currently leading the nation with the highest percentage of winter wheat headed among the top 18 states that account for 90% of the nation’s acreage.

California

California winter wheat is at 60% headed, significantly ahead of the 38% five-year average and up 20 percentage points from the previous week. The crop condition ratings in the state remain strong, with 70% of winter wheat rated excellent and 25% rated good. Moisture conditions in California are favorable, with topsoil moisture rated at 90% adequate and 10% surplus. Claudia Carter, executive director of the California Wheat Commission, noted that current conditions remain favorable, with producers happy with what they’re seeing.

Texas

Texas follows closely with 30% of its winter wheat headed, slightly behind last year’s 38% and the five-year average of 33%. Crop condition ratings in Texas are more varied compared to California, with 40% of the wheat rated good, 24% poor, and 13% very poor. Topsoil moisture data in Texas highlights limited moisture availability in some areas, with 20% of the state’s topsoil rated very short on moisture and 33% rated short.

Arkansas

Arkansas ranks third in the nation for heading, with 24% of its crop headed, 10 percentage points behind last year but still ahead of the five-year average. The crop condition in Arkansas is mostly moderate to good, with 47% of winter wheat rated good, 36% fair, and 14% poor. Topsoil moisture in Arkansas is favorable, with 54% rated adequate and 54% reported as surplus, suggesting sufficient water availability to support continued heading progress.

Other States

Nationwide, winter wheat heading is equal to the five-year average at 8%. Overall crop conditions are holding steady, with 6% rated excellent, 41% good, 20% fair, 8% poor, and 3% very poor. The report offers early insight into regional contrasts in development and growing conditions, emphasizing the importance of monitoring heading progress and moisture trends as the season unfolds.

As the agriculture industry continues to monitor winter wheat progress across the nation, these trends provide valuable insights for producers and stakeholders alike. Stay tuned for more updates on crop progress and conditions as the season progresses.