Product and Agronomy Research (PAR) Results: Corn Planting Date

Corn Planting Date - Wabash

Description:

Planting date of corn is a common topic throughout the year. We know that certain hybrids have different attributes that make them better suited for different planting times. In this study we are looking to compare 4 hybrids with differing stress emergence ratings to see how planting date impacts the yield of each hybrid. This data will allow us to have a better understanding of how planting date affects hybrids with various stress emergence characteristics.

Wabash, IN

DS-4219AM, DS-4917AM, DS-5161Q and DS-5144Q were planted at 34,000 seeds per acre in 30-inch rows. The May 19^th planting of DS-5144Q was unable to be harvested. Treatments were replicated 2 times.

Treatments:

Planting Dates

1. April 23
2. May 12
3. May 19
4. June 1

Results:

Conclusion:

Cool and wet weather this spring delayed planting in several areas by about 2 weeks. Even with a little later planting date than usual, significantly lower yields were reported across all 4 hybrids for the early planting date. Yields for the May 12 through June 1 planting dates did not differ drastically. When we compare this year’s results to last year’s results, we see the same trend of increased test weight and lower moisture with the early planting. However, last year there were higher yields with the early planting and this year the early planting resulted in the lowest yields, regardless of hybrid stress emergence ratings. This shows the importance of paying attention to soil conditions, like temperature and moisture, instead of a calendar date to determine the optimum planting time.

Ideal conditions for planting include adequate moisture but not too much moisture and soil temperatures above 50°F with an uptrend. It is best to check the extended weather forecast before planting to make sure cool and wet conditions are not predicted. Less than ideal soil conditions can result in chilling imbibitional injury, compaction and uneven emergence which can all negatively affect yield. Overall, the best planting time is when soil conditions are optimal, and the upcoming weather forecast is favorable.

Brian Weller Western Region 507.456.3034	Dan Ritter Central Region 219.863.0583	Branden Furseth Northern Region 608.513.4265	Mark Gibson Eastern Region 260.330.8968	Amanda Goffnett Eastern Region 989.400.3793

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