CoBank predicts 4.2% increase in planted corn acreage for 2025

CoBank is predicting U.S. corn planted acreage will reach 94.55 million this year, up 4.2% when compared to 2024. Sorghum planted acres are expected to fall 9.5%, according to the CoBank’s spring acreage outlook, released Feb. 20.

If realized, the projected 94.55 million planted acres of corn will be up approximately 4.2% when compared to the 90.065 million acres planted last year, but down slightly from 94.64 million acres planted in 2023. Corn harvested for grain acreage is expected to be up 5% when compared to last year, with harvested acreage for silage projected to be down 8.2%.

Within the report, CoBank notes that corn has maintained an impressive price run in recent months while competing crops have struggled to maintain the same price strength, suggesting a major shift in acreage. CoBank cites tight global stocks, an impressive export pace, record ethanol production, and profitable feeding margins in the livestock and poultry sectors as factors contributing to current strong corn prices.

Sorghum planted acreage is currently projected at 5.7 million, down 9.5% when compared to 2024. The expected decline is attributed to the loss of export demand, particularly from China.