DELMARVA — Grain markets closed higher Friday on a combination of weather concerns and strong export demand, with soybeans leading gains after the USDA announced significant new sales to China and Mexico.
Markets
The USDA reported 340,000 tons of American soybeans sold to China, another 256,000 tons bound for Mexico, and 120,000 tons to undisclosed buyers — all for the 2026/2027 marketing year.
At Friday’s close, September corn settled at $4.44¾/bu, up 3¼ cents. August soybeans finished at $12.04½/bu, a gain of 9½ cents. September Chicago wheat closed at $6.82¾/bu, up 8 cents. Corn and wheat also posted gains, with weather playing a role across the complex.
Locally, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel is bidding $4.90/bu for September corn and $11.53/bu for November soybeans.
Research
University of Maryland researchers are testing cereal rye cover crops as a weed management tool in soybean fields at the Wye Research and Education Center in Queenstown. Trials funded by the Maryland Soybean Board show soybeans held up well after being rolled at the V1, V2, and even V3 growth stages.
Forecast
Saturday will bring high heat topping near 93°F with smoke in the air and southwest winds of 5-15 mph. Air quality alerts remain in effect across Delmarva, and a flood watch runs through Sunday morning. Farmers are advised to keep field workers and livestock protected.
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to move in Saturday night. Sunday is forecast to clear to mostly sunny with a high near 86°F.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 18, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
