Field and Hybrid Selections Important in Continuous Corn Cropping Systems
Thanks to advances in seed corn technology and production, many corn growers are forgoing the traditional crop rotation in favor of a continuous corn cropping system. High yields are possible with proper management including field selection, hybrid selection, fertility, tillage, planting rates, as well as insect and disease control.
Only highly productive fields should be placed in corn-on-corn situations. Fields with good drainage/water holding capacity, good fertility, no compaction problems and low insect/disease pressure are best suited for continuous corn.
Once you’ve selected which fields you want to plant corn-on-corn, selecting the correct corn hybrid is of utmost importance. Pay special attention to plant characteristics including high ratings for emergence, seedling vigor, as well as root and stalk strength. Products including insect resistances should be used because continuous corn can increase the likelihood of certain pests.
Nick Benson, a corn product specialist with Latham Hi-Tech Seeds, says it’s important to choose hybrids that exhibit good disease tolerance and have the overall ability to handle stressful situations. His top picks for Latham® Hi-Tech Hybrids are: LH4943 3000GT, LH5266 3000GT, LH5426VT3 PRO, LH 5645 3000GT, LH5777SS, LH 6025 3000GT, LH6202 3000GT, LH 6255 VT3 PRO and LH6394 3000GT. Corn growers who are planting corn-on-corn in very good soils, using split application of Nitrogen and a foliar fungicide could try LH 4999 VT3 PRO, LH 5228 VT3, LH 5494 3000GT, LH 5877 VT3 PRO, LH 6357 VT3 PRO for corn-on-corn situations. Benson talks about LH 5266 3000GT and LH 5645 3000GT in the videos below.
LH 5266 3000GT
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Bc52BcmaDs[/youtube]
LH 5645 3000GT
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqiKQ-xdWK0[/youtube]
To determine which corn hybrids are best suited for your soils and farming practices, talk to your local Latham® dealer or call 1-877-GO-LATHAM.
(Source: Monsanto’s Agronomic Spotlight)
What are your thoughts on continuous corn production? Please comment below.
