View of field of cord seedlings in springThe USDA released its first 2026 Crop Progress report for the week ending April 5, showing early planting activity and initial crop development as the season gets underway. Corn planting is underway in nine states, with about 3% of the nation’s corn crop planted, which is slightly ahead of the five‑year average. Texas leads with 59% of its corn acres planted, followed by Tennessee at 18%, while several key Corn Belt states also report early progress.

Winter wheat development is beginning, with 7% of the crop nationally reported as headed; condition ratings show 35% in good to excellent condition and 31% rated poor to very poor — reflecting varied regional conditions. Spring wheat planting has started slowly in the top states, with 2% of acres planted as of early April. These early progress indicators provide a first look at planting timelines and crop conditions as producers move into the primary planting window.

Read the full article to see how early planting and crop conditions may influence planting strategies and market expectations.