DELMARVA — Grain growers across the Delmarva Peninsula are watching basis levels closely as planting operations continue across the region. Excellent field conditions through late April allowed farmers to take advantage of ideal planting weather, and last week’s rainfall came at the right time to support continued operations.
Market watchers are monitoring whether rising input costs might push more acreage into soybeans. The full picture won’t emerge until USDA releases its June 30 Planted Acreage report.
Current projections show corn plantings at 95.338 million acres nationally, down from last year’s 98.788 million. Soybean acreage is forecast to climb from 81.215 million to 84.7 million acres.
Markets
November soybean futures settled yesterday at $11.68, gaining roughly $0.25 since late March. December corn closed yesterday at $4.96, climbing from $4.72 in early April.
At Laurel Grain Company, July corn is bringing $5.25 a bushel, while July soybeans are at $11.44.
Cattle futures ended the week lower yesterday. August live cattle fell $0.85 to $247.82 per hundredweight. August feeder cattle dropped $1.35 to $372.17. Analysts say the weakness stems from rising corn prices increasing feed costs.
Forecast
Temperatures today are expected to reach 61° with a slight chance of rain showers. Tomorrow looks sunny with highs near 62°.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, May 2, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
