US Farmers to Plant More Soybeans, Less Corn in 2026

USDA forecasts second-largest corn and soybean harvests on record

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, American farmers will plant more soybeans and less corn in 2026 compared to the previous year. The USDA projected corn plantings at 94 million acres, down from a high of 98.8 million acres in 2025, while soybean seedings are expected to rise to 85 million acres from 81.2 million acres last year. The agency expects the 2026 U.S. corn harvest to reach 15.755 billion bushels and the soybean harvest to hit 4.450 billion bushels, both the second-largest on record.

Why it matters

This shift in planting patterns reflects the challenges facing U.S. farmers, including a global supply glut, weak crop prices, and rising input costs. The USDA's projections provide insight into how growers are adapting their crop mix to market conditions and profitability considerations, with soybean acres rising despite trade tensions with China.

The details

The USDA's corn acreage forecast was below the average estimate in a Reuters poll, while soybean seedings topped the average. Low corn prices and ample supplies following a record 2025 crop are expected to discourage growers from expanding corn plantings, though strong demand from exporters and ethanol producers will likely limit a steeper decline. Soybean acres, meanwhile, are seen rising due to growing domestic demand for soybean oil from renewable fuel makers.

  • The USDA released its projections at the start of its annual Ag Outlook Forum on February 19, 2026.
  • The 2026/27 marketing year for corn and soybeans will run from September 1, 2026 to August 31, 2027.

The players

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The U.S. federal agency responsible for developing and executing policies related to agriculture, food, natural resources, and rural development.

Midwest farmers

Growers in the U.S. Midwest region who typically cultivate both corn and soybeans, alternating between the two crops to preserve soil health.

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What’s next

The USDA's projections will help guide planting decisions for farmers across the U.S. Midwest as they prepare for the 2026 growing season.

The takeaway

The USDA's forecast of increased soybean plantings and decreased corn plantings in 2026 reflects the complex economic factors facing American farmers, including global supply and demand dynamics, trade tensions, and rising input costs. These shifts in crop mix highlight the adaptability of Midwest growers as they navigate an evolving agricultural landscape.