DES MOINES, Iowa (Agriculture.com)--The U.S. farmers have planted over half of what they are expected to seed for the 2012 corn crop, USDA says.

In its weekly Crop Progress Report, the USDA estimates that 53% of the U.S. corn is planted, sharply higher than the 12% a year ago and a 27% five-year pace. Also, 15% of the corn has emerged, vs. 4% a year ago and a 6% five-year average.

For soybeans, the USDA sees the U.S. crop 12% planted, up from 2% a year ago and a 5% five-year average.

Spring wheat is 74% planted, compared to a 9% year ago average and a 32% five-year pace. Also, USDA estimates that 30% of the U.S. Spring wheat has emerged.

U.S. Winter Wheat is rated as 10% very poor-poor, 26% fair, and 64% good-excellent. Plus, 54% of the winter wheat has headed, vs. 29% a year ago and a 24% five-year average.

It's interesting to note, the USDA's 53% corn planting estimate is higher than the trade thought.

Discuss corn and soybean planting in Marketing Talk.