DELMARVA — Rootless corn syndrome has emerged as a major problem for growers this week as extreme weather conditions create ideal circumstances for the condition’s spread.
Robby Meeker, an agronomy manager with Wyffels Hybrids overseeing operations across eastern Illinois and Indiana, says extreme weather in June has severely impacted crop development. The combination of excessive heat, drought conditions, and persistent strong winds created a perfect storm for the syndrome’s spread. The condition has plagued corn crops across multiple states this growing season.
Drought has devastated hay crops across the region. Rosemary Life, an associate Extension agent in Rockingham County, Virginia, reports producers there saw first cutting yields at just 40% of normal. That shortfall comes on the heels of a long harsh winter that already strained hay supplies. Many farmers went into spring with fewer reserves than usual after feeding livestock through extended snow cover. Even if weather improves, the reduced first cutting means there will be less hay available heading into fall and winter.
Markets
Friday’s close saw corn finish steady to firm while soybeans and wheat weakened. Soybeans faced pressure from fund and technical selling. Locally, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $4.58 a bushel for July delivery. Soybeans there are $10.54 for July.
Forecast
Saturday afternoon will reach 83° with sunny skies. Tonight drops to 69° and partly cloudy. Sunday brings 80° with partly sunny skies, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, June 13, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
