Texas corn and sorghum crops are improving in areas that have received spring rainfall, but drought conditions and rising fertilizer costs continue to create challenges for farmers across the state.
Crop conditions this spring have varied greatly depending on location. Early planted corn in some regions suffered from drought and freeze damage, while parts of Central Texas have recently benefited from much-needed moisture. South and South Central Texas producers faced dry planting conditions that delayed schedules, but recent rainfall and favorable forecasts are helping crops recover.
In Central Texas, corn and sorghum fields are showing strong progress where rain has improved soil moisture. Crops in these areas are looking healthier, and wheat is also advancing toward maturity. However, producers in the High Plains and other dry regions continue to deal with limited rainfall, high winds, and declining soil moisture levels. Smaller plants, thinner leaves, and delayed planting remain concerns in drought-affected areas.
Dry conditions have also kept weed pressure lower than normal, and there have been no major insect or disease outbreaks reported statewide. Some farmers are also shifting acreage to soybeans this season as they adjust planting decisions based on weather and market conditions.
While commodity prices for corn, grain sorghum, and soybeans are improving, higher production costs are creating added financial pressure. Rising fuel prices and sharply increasing fertilizer costs are making it more expensive for Texas farmers to stay on schedule and protect crop yields.
Fertilizer prices are expected to remain high into 2027. Producers who purchased fertilizer earlier in the season may avoid some of the biggest increases, but later purchases are becoming significantly more expensive. Strong global demand, especially from countries like Brazil and China, along with shipping disruptions and higher diesel costs, continue to drive fertilizer prices upward.
Across Texas, the success of the 2026 growing season will depend heavily on continued rainfall. Southeast and Central Texas are seeing stronger crop development, while the Panhandle, South Plains, and Rolling Plains remain under drought pressure. Cotton planting is behind schedule in several areas, and some wheat fields are being grazed out or cut for silage because of poor growing conditions.
Livestock conditions remain mostly stable thanks to supplemental feeding and improved pasture growth where rain has fallen. However, producers statewide are watching the weather closely, knowing the next several weeks will play a major role in determining final crop yields and overall farm profitability.
