Early-Season Corn: Projections Lead to Profit

From emergence through harvest, there are many opportunities to closely observe performance on all of your hybrids.

Now is the time to review early season problems, and note any effects from insects, disease, cultural practices or weather. It’s important to collect additional production information on hybrid performance by soil type as well as abnormal physical characteristics of plants.

From the vegetative to the reproductive growth stages, it’s important to note the uniformity of pollination throughout each field. Uneven plant height can indicate areas of stress in the field and that, along with other yield limiting factors, can change the timing of corn growth and the development, leading to pollination problems.

Watch for conditions that impact moisture uptake, including insects that destroy roots.  Corn Rootworm (CRW) larvae are ferocious root eaters. CRW is thriving this season and pressure can vary from field-to-field. At this time of year, CRW larvae can be found on roots more easily because they are larger. Scout multiple locations within a field for larvae and make notes on other corn soil pests as well.

Collecting information will give you insights as you plan which hybrids are best for your land next year. The primary focus of Latham Hi-Tech Hybrids’ Seed2Soil program is to help you optimize yield potential by planting the right product, in the right location, for the right reasons.