Source:  Michael Fielding, MEATINGPLACE, 5/24/11

Farmers had planted about 79 percent of the U.S. corn crop by May 22 as the surge slowed, according to the USDA.

Compared with 2010 figures, the current corn crop still lags behind the 92 percent that was in the ground this time last year as well as the five-year average of 87 percent.

In its weekly Crop Progress Report, USDA surveyed progress in the 18 states that produced 92 percent of the 2010 corn crop.

By May 22, about 45 percent of the corn crop had emerged, compared with 69 percent by this time last year and the five-year average of 59 percent.

To view progress by state, click here.
 

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