DELMARVA — Grain markets closed higher Wednesday, driven by hot weather forecasts across the growing region and renewed interest in Chinese demand.
Markets
September corn settled at $4.62/bu, up $0.09¼. August soybeans closed at $12.33, gaining $0.13½. September Chicago wheat posted the biggest gain of the session, up $0.27¾ to close at $7.05¾/bu.
Livestock markets did not share in the rally. August live cattle fell $3.47 to $223.20, and August feeder cattle dropped $8.37 to $341.17.
Locally, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bidding $5.07/bu on September corn and $11.89 on November soybeans.
Traders are watching for USDA weekly export sales figures due out Thursday morning, which could add further support to the complex.
Crop Health
Extension plant pathologists are urging soybean producers to scout fields now for soybean cyst nematode. The pest causes serious yield losses with no visible above-ground symptoms — by the time damage is noticed, it is often too late.
Policy
Senate Agriculture Committee Chair John Boozman says he expects the committee to vote to advance a new farm bill before Congress heads into its August recess.
Forecast
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible across Delmarva through Wednesday night, with temperatures near 88°F. Thursday brings sunshine and a high of 81° — good drying conditions for any fieldwork.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 22, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
