DELMARVA — Delmarva grain farmers are leaning toward corn over soybeans for the 2026 spring planting season, according to early indications as USDA finalizes acreage estimates. Higher corn futures and stronger demand from the region’s poultry industry are driving the shift.
Extension agents across Delaware and the Eastern Shore report corn could pick up an additional 5 to 8 percent of planted acres compared to last spring. That would mark the biggest shift in 3 years. Input dealers report seed orders reflect the trend, with corn seed sales running ahead of last year’s pace.
Markets
March corn closed at $4.73 a bushel, up 2 cents. March soybeans settled at $10.19, down 4 cents. March wheat finished at $5.51, unchanged.
Locally, cash corn on Delmarva is moving at $4.60 a bushel. Soybeans are bringing $9.85.
Forecast
Friday evening brings cold but dry conditions with temperatures falling to 21 degrees tonight under mostly clear skies. Saturday looks sunny with highs around 45 degrees.
Sunday brings a shift as a mixed precipitation system moves in by afternoon. Rain and snow chances increase Sunday night into Monday, impacting any field work plans early next week. Temperatures stay in the low to mid 40s through the holiday weekend.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, February 13, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
