DELMARVA — Cold weather in the Midwest has farmers worried this week as recent temperatures have created emergence problems for corn and soybeans across parts of Illinois and Wisconsin, according to Chris Brown, a field agronomist for Burrus Seed. Brown says those crops don’t have the growing degree units and heat needed to help plants develop during this critical phase.
Policy
The Maryland Department of Agriculture announced Friday a $1.6 million grant program for postharvest infrastructure. The program will help rural communities build and enhance refrigerated storage and food distribution systems. Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks says strengthening local food producers will improve access to nutritious, locally sourced food. Priority goes to agricultural producers, seafood processors, and producer groups.
Markets
Soybeans and corn finished firm Friday ahead of the Memorial Day weekend. Short covering and technical buying pushed soybean prices higher. Traders report crop planting and growing conditions look generally positive. Locally, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $5.02 a bushel for December delivery. Soybeans there are running $11.38 for November.
Forecast
Rain continues this evening with temperatures near 58°F. Expect more rain Sunday with a high near 67°F, then showers and thunderstorms likely Sunday night. Memorial Day brings rain showers likely with highs in the low 70s.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, May 23, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
