DELMARVA — An agricultural specialist is warning corn growers to start planning their defense against tar spot disease immediately. Jason Gibson from Corteva Agriscience says the crop ailment is expanding its reach and showing up earlier each season.
Gibson says tar spot can take off 20 to 50 bushels in a hurry, especially when conditions favor the disease.
Markets
Grain futures closed mixed Wednesday. July corn settled at $4.65 3/4, down 9 1/2 cents. July soybeans fell 9 3/4 cents to close at $11.99 3/4. July wheat ended at $6.60 1/2, down 6 3/4 cents.
For local cash bids, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $5.11 for July delivery. Soybeans there are at $11.40 for July.
Livestock markets were mixed. June live cattle closed down $1.27 at $253.27. August feeder cattle gained $2.12 to finish at $365.77. June lean hogs dropped 65 points to $97.27.
Forecast
Severe thunderstorms are moving through the region this evening with a heat advisory in effect until 8:00 p.m. tonight. Thursday brings rain showers likely with temperatures only reaching 67 degrees and northeast winds at 10 mph. Rain continues into the weekend.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, May 20, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
