North Dakota Crop Planting Moves Ahead of Average

By Scout Nelson

For the week ending May 25, 2025, North Dakota farmers report strong planting progress across major crops, despite having only 2.5 suitable days for fieldwork due to recent rainfall.

According to the USDA, topsoil moisture is mostly in good shape, with 74% rated adequate and 11% surplus. Subsoil moisture shows similar results, with 72% adequate and 7% surplus. These moisture levels support the early growth of many crops.

Soybean planting stands at 58%, ahead of both last year and the five-year average. About 12% of the soybean crop has already emerged. Corn is 78% planted and 39% emerged, which is well above average. Corn condition rates 48% good to excellent.

Spring wheat planting reaches 84%, and 53% has emerged. Condition ratings show 37% fair, 36% good, and 5% very poor. Durum wheat is 76% planted and 56% emerged, with progress ahead of normal.

Winter wheat is showing mixed results. About 48% are joined and 2% are headed. The condition is 41% good and 9% very poor. Canola planting is 54%, close to average, with 22% growth.

Oats and barley are also progressing. Oats are 76% planted and 47% emerged, while barley is 71% planted and 40% emerged. Both crops show mostly fair conditions.

Flaxseed planting is 56%, and 29% has emerged, far ahead of last year. Potatoes are 69% planted and 17% emerged. Dry edible beans and peas are also moving ahead of schedule. Sunflower planting reaches 36%, and 5% has emerged.

Pasture and range conditions are stable, with 46% rated good. Stock water supplies are mostly adequate, helping support livestock needs as planting continues across the state.

Photo Credit: usda