Corn – Known as the largest revenue-generating crop in the US, corn is popular for speculators and hedgers alike. The US planting season starts in April and ends in early June with July through August being the critical period of the growing season. Once late August to early September hit, there isn’t much that can affect the final yield outcome. With growing interest in ethanol as well as the constant need for feed, this is a contract to watch.

Wheat – Wheat is an International crop, with worldwide planting and consumption needs. There are five major classes of wheat in the US, including hard red winter, soft red winter, hard red spring, white and durum wheat. Though wheat is a hardy plant, the final yield can be affected by winterkill, drought, or excessive moisture.

Soybeans – Regarded as the second largest revenue-generating crop for the US, soybeans are a multipurpose crop. Once harvested, soybeans are either crushed into soymeal, which is used for feed, or soybean oil. Soybean oil is used for food oils, paint, plastics, and bio-diesel production.

Reports to Watch

USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report
USDA Crop Production
USDA Grain Stocks
USDA Acreage