DELMARVA — Spring planting is moving along at a strong pace across Delmarva, with the region receiving essential rainfall earlier this week. According to commodities analyst John Hall, Delmarva may have been among the few crop-growing areas nationwide that actually needed more moisture.
Planting Progress
National numbers show robust advancement in fieldwork. The crop progress report showed corn planting at 57% completion as of last Sunday, just behind last year but 5 points above the 5-year average. Soybeans hit 49%, well ahead of the 36% average.
The fast soybean pace has some analysts wondering if farmers will push acreage beyond 85,000,000 acres nationwide as fertilizer costs stay high.
Markets
July corn closed yesterday at $4.76/bu. New crop corn finished at $4.99/bu. May soybeans closed at $11.97/bu, with November new crop at $11.96/bu. July wheat ended at $6.79/bu.
On Delmarva, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is paying $5.01/bu for July corn delivery and $11.17/bu for July soybeans.
Livestock had a strong finish to the week at Chicago. June live cattle jumped $1.82 to close at $253.90. August feeders climbed $3.45 to $361.45.
Trade Policy
China and the U.S. reached preliminary agreements today to cut farm tariffs and boost agricultural commerce. The details are still being finalized, but industry observers expect a 10% reduction in soybean tariffs.
Forecast
Sunny skies are expected this afternoon with a high of 76°F. There is a chance of rain showers tonight, then mostly sunny conditions tomorrow with a high near 80°F.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, May 16, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
