Washington Winter Wheat Plantings Well Ahead Of Average

The USDA is out with the first planting progress report for the 2026 winter wheat crop.  USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey said some level of progress is being reported in more than half of the 18 producing state.

With the drought in the Northwest, things have gotten off to a very quick start on planting in Washington state," Rippey said.  "Already 40% planted by September 7th, well ahead of the five-year average of 28%. No other single state has reached double digits yet.”

How Are Other Winter Wheat States Faring

Meanwhile, 5% of Idaho’s winter wheat crop is in the ground.  That is slightly below both last year’s number and the five-year average.

Oregon’s crop is also at 5% planted, which is one point ahead of 2024’s numbers, as well as the state’s five-year average.

As far as the rest of the winter wheat producing county is concerned, 5% of the 2026 crop is in the ground as of Sunday.

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