The U.S. corn crop is progressing steadily through the growing season, with more than a quarter of the national acreage now at the dough stage, according to the latest USDA Crop Progress Report. As of the week ending July 27, 26 percent of corn acres across 16 major producing states had reached this critical phase of development. This is slightly ahead of the five-year average of 24 percent and just behind last year’s pace of 28 percent.

The dough stage marks the beginning of kernel filling, a key part of the reproductive phase that ultimately affects final yield. Favorable weather throughout July has helped accelerate crop development in many areas.

At the start of July, only 3 percent of the crop had entered the dough stage. That figure rose to 14 percent by mid-month and climbed to 26 percent by the end of the month. Meanwhile, 76 percent of the corn crop had reached the silking stage, just below the five-year average of 77 percent and slightly ahead of the 75 percent recorded at the same time last year.

Crop condition remains strong overall. The USDA rated 73 percent of the crop as good to excellent, which is one point lower than the previous week but five points higher than the same period last year.

Despite these positive indicators, there are concerns about emerging disease threats and localized weather impacts. Of particular note is the spread of tar spot, a fungal disease affecting corn in several Midwestern states. Recent reports confirm tar spot infections in 35 Iowa counties, prompting calls for continued vigilance and targeted field management.

As the crop progresses toward the dent and maturity stages in August, upcoming weather conditions and disease pressure will play a critical role in determining final yields.