Farmers in Wisconsin had just 3.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 4, 2025, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Rainy conditions, especially in the northern parts of the state, slowed planting progress but helped improve soil moisture and crop conditions.
While the wet weather delayed some fieldwork, it had positive effects on pastures, hay, and small grains. Pasture and range conditions improved significantly, with 47% now rated good to excellent. Winter wheat also showed progress, with 63% of the crop rated good to excellent—an increase from the previous week.
Topsoil moisture statewide was rated 66% adequate and 27% surplus, with only 7% short and none very short. Subsoil moisture showed similar ratings, with 66% adequate, 22% surplus, and 11% short.
Corn planting across the state reached 16% completion. This is two days behind both last year and the five-year average. Planting progress varied widely by region. In the south-central district, 37% of corn is planted, while the northwestern region sits at just 4%, with some areas not yet started.
Soybean planting stood at 17%, just slightly behind last year but one day ahead of the five-year average. In the south-central region, 40% of soybeans are already planted. Northern regions remain slower, with less than 4% complete.
Oat planting was 36% finished, which is five days behind the average. Only 10% of the oats had emerged. Southern areas are moving ahead faster, helped by warmer soils.
Spring tillage was 42% complete statewide. This is three days behind the average. Southern Wisconsin is again farther along, with 61% to 71% completion. Northern areas like north-central and northeastern Wisconsin remain under 10%, waiting for better field conditions.
Potato planting reached 55%, which is nine days behind last year but close to the five-year average.
The state’s first hay condition report of the season showed 68% of fields in good to excellent condition.
Despite the planting delays, moisture levels are supporting early crop development. As field conditions improve, planting activity is expected to increase in the coming days.
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