From South to North: Tracking Indiana’s Planting Progress

As of May 16, 2025, 62% of the U.S. corn crop has been planted, ahead of both last year’s pace (47%) and the 5-year average of 56% (Table 1). Favorable weather conditions last week allowed farmers across much of the Corn Belt and northern states to make strong progress.

Southern states continue to lead progress, with Texas (84%), North Carolina (86%), and Tennessee (76%) nearing completion of early vegetative establishment.

Across the Corn Belt, planting activity accelerated sharply. Iowa climbed to 76%, Minnesota reached 75%, and Nebraska advanced to 73%, all well ahead of their historical averages. Illinois also made significant gains, jumping from 32% to 54%. While Ohio (25%) and Wisconsin (44%) remain behind their average pace. Warmer temperatures and drier conditions are expected to support continued improvement in seedbed preparation, emergence, and early stand establishment in the coming weeks.

In Indiana, the USDA-NASS report indicates that 45% of the corn crop has been planted as of May 16, representing a significant 19 percentage-point increase from the previous week (Figure 1). This sharp weekly gain reflects strong planting momentum, bringing the state ahead of the 5-year average of 42% this time of year. Compared to past seasons (2015–2024), 2025 progress is now on pace with, or ahead of, several years that saw delayed starts but rapid mid-May planting surges.

With recent dry weather and rising temperatures, planting conditions across the state have significantly improved. Growers have taken advantage of this favorable window, and continued progress is likely if current weather patterns persist. Emergence is underway for corn already in the ground, particularly in southern Indiana. Producers should begin evaluating stand establishment to assess planting depth consistency, spot emergence issues, and plan any needed management interventions.

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