Improving Corn (Zea mays L.) Stands By Adapting Planting Practices.

Improving Corn (Zea mays L.) stands by adapting planting practices By: Nolan K. Stapleton and Erick J. Larson Early planting is a critical component of high yielding corn [Zea mays(L.)] production systems. However, early planting normally increases corn seedling exposure to cool temperatures and saturated soil. Both of these factors may retard seedling germination and contribute to seedling mortality or developmental issues. Therefore, we initiated a field study designed to evaluate how the presence of raised beds and seeding depth may affect corn seedling development. Corn was planted at four depths treatments ranging from 1.5 inches to 3.25 inches. Corn was grown on three different raised seedbeds treatments ranging from 2 inches to 7 inches tall. Two different hybrids varying in adaptation to soil saturation were also evaluated. Preliminary results indicate tall bed height and moderate planting depth increase seedling emergence rate and improve stand uniformity. Taller bed height improved results by likely alleviating soil saturation common during seedling emergence. Shallow planting depths likely improved outcomes by exposing seedlings to warmer and less saturated soil.