Arkansas farmers have kicked off the planting season, with two percent of corn already in the ground, according to the Crop Progress report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Winter wheat is also progressing well, with 58% of the crop rated as in good or excellent condition. Rice planting is set to begin soon, with some growers already starting preparations.
Jason Kelley, an agronomist, expects corn acres to rebound this year due to price pressures on other row crops. Rice extension agronomist, Jarrod Hardke, noted that planting is picking up speed despite concerns about weather conditions. Soybean acres are projected to remain around 3 million this season. Cotton and peanuts are still several weeks away from planting, with a planting window between April 20 and May 20.
Scott Stiles, an economics program associate, anticipates a reshaping of expected acres based on market trends. Cotton acres are expected to decline, with Arkansas’ cotton acres projected to be down seven percent. Prices for corn and soybeans have decreased from their peak in February, with a potential peak by mid-June if crop conditions remain favorable.
The USDA will issue its annual Prospective Plantings report on March 31, providing an overview of farmers’ intentions for the 2025 growing season. Overall, planting is expected to pick up speed in the coming weeks, with farmers hopeful for a successful season despite concerns about weather conditions and market trends.
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