DELMARVA — Grain markets rallied Monday following a new trade deal with China that commits Beijing to buying at least $17 billion in American agricultural products each year for the next 3 years. The expansion beyond previous soybean agreements announced last October lifted commodity prices across the board.
Markets
July corn futures climbed 21.25 cents to close at $4.77/bu. July soybeans jumped 36 cents to $12.13, while July soybean meal added 20 cents to finish at $334.50. July wheat at Chicago rose 28.75 cents to $6.64.50.
On Delmarva, corn at Laurel Grain Company is bringing $5.22/bu for July delivery, and soybeans are $11.53.
Planting Progress
Nationwide, planting is running well ahead of schedule. 75% of the U.S. corn crop is in the ground as of Sunday, ahead of the 5-year average of 70%. Soybean planting is at 67%, also running ahead of normal.
Forecast
The region is wrapping up a sunny Monday afternoon with temperatures in the low 80s. Tuesday brings Code Orange air quality, with a weather inversion trapping pollutants near ground level and mid-90s heat worsening ozone formation. Sensitive groups should limit outdoor work. Wednesday stays hot with showers and thunderstorms developing, then cooler Thursday with a cold front bringing rain and cleaner air from the northeast.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, May 18, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
