Rain Keeps Missouri Farmers Out of Fields, Delays Planting

Missouri farmers averaged less than a day of fieldwork last week because of above-average rainfall that has caused corn and soybean planting to fall a little behind.

The National Agricultural Statistics Service says precipitation averaged 2.46 inches statewide, which is 1.44 inches above normal, while temperatures were slightly above average.

NASS says corn planting is 87 percent complete, lagging behind 99 percent at this time last year and the five-year average of 95 percent. Only 23 percent of the state's soybeans had been planted, compared with 74 percent last year and the 57 percent five-year average.

Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 21 percent surplus, while topsoil moisture was rated 46 percent adequate and 54 percent surplus.