DELMARVA — Delmarva growers are navigating a tough financial squeeze this spring as rising fertilizer costs and weak corn prices force producers to run skinny budgets.
Nate Bruce, a farm management specialist at the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, says federal projections show fertilizer expenses hitting $166 per acre in 2026, up 5.3% from last year. Meanwhile, September corn futures are trading around $4.55 a bushel — well below break-even costs of $4.70 to $4.90 for many operations.
Nitrogen prices have jumped 12% to 41% recently due to Middle East conflicts and supply issues. Some farmers are turning to poultry litter at 2 to 3 tons per acre to cut costs.
Drought conditions are adding to the pressure. Virgil Shockley at Oak Shelter Farm says Delmarva is about 6 inches down on rainfall since January. He’s cut his corn planting nearly in half, switching to soybeans instead.
Markets
Corn at Laurel Grain Company is bringing $5.01 a bushel for July delivery. Soybeans there are $11.17 for July.
Forecast
Sunny skies are expected today with highs near 76°F. Tonight brings a chance of rain showers with lows around 62°F. Tomorrow looks mostly sunny with highs reaching 78°F.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, May 16, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
