The U.S. corn crop is thriving in 2025, with 20% of fields rated "excellent" and 73% rated "good/excellent" overall, according to the latest USDA Crop Progress report released July 28. This marks the highest "excellent" rating for corn since 2018, signaling strong potential yields amid key reproductive stages.

As of July 27, 76% of corn across the top 18 producing states had reached the silking stage, just one point shy of the five-year average of 77%. Meanwhile, 26% of the crop had entered the dough stage, slightly ahead of the 24% seasonal norm.

The crop's robust condition bodes well for commodity markets and yield forecasts, offering a buffer against fluctuating input costs and variable weather patterns.

Corn Condition ‘Excellent' Rating Over Time

Soybeans are following closely behind in seasonal development. The USDA noted that 76% of soybeans had reached blooming, matching the five-year average. Pod set reached 41%, just under the historical average of 42%. Crop condition stood strong with 70% rated good/excellent, 24% fair, and only 6% poor/very poor.

Winter wheat harvest is nearly complete, with 80% of the crop harvested-slightly trailing the five-year average of 81%. Meanwhile, spring wheat has been slower to develop, with only 92% of the crop headed, behind the 95% average. Harvest has begun in Idaho, South Dakota, and Washington, reaching just 1% completion versus the 3% five-year mark.

The condition of spring wheat reflected some stress: 49% good/excellent, 33% fair, and 18% poor/very poor.

In oats, 29% of the crop has been harvested across the top nine oat-growing states, lagging the five-year average of 32%. Crop condition rated 58% good/excellent, 25% fair, and 17% poor/very poor.

These figures underscore a mixed but generally positive picture for U.S. row crops midseason, with corn leading the charge thanks to favorable growing conditions in several key states. Eyes will remain on August weather and crop insurance data as producers and investors prepare for final yield assessments.