By Andi Anderson
Ohio farmers experienced another challenging week for fieldwork as wet soil conditions limited planting activities. For the week ending May 4, 2025, there were only 2.8 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
Topsoil moisture was reported as 0% very short, 2% short, 52% adequate, and 46% surplus. Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern with 0% very short, 5% short, 70% adequate, and 25% surplus. These high moisture levels slowed planting but supported healthy crop conditions.
Corn planting reached 22%, up significantly from 8% the previous week and nearly matching the five-year average of 23%. Corn emergence reached 4%, reflecting the early development stages. Soybean planting also progressed to 23%, with emergence starting at 1%.
Oat planting reached 74%, while emergence rose to 40%. Winter wheat jointing was recorded at 75%, with 7% of the crop already headed—slightly behind average but progressing steadily.
Crop conditions remain strong. Winter wheat was rated 50% good and 11% excellent, with only 2% rated very poor and 4% poor. Pasture and range conditions were similarly positive, with 67% rated good and 8% excellent.
This report marks the final state-level update from the Great Lakes Regional Field Office. Future crop weather updates will be included in the national report, available online through USDA resources.
Despite challenges from wet fields, Ohio’s spring planting season is progressing, with strong early crop conditions giving farmers optimism for the weeks ahead.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: Ohio, Weather