The Risks of Early Planting

Posted By Team Latham

RISKS OF EARLY PLANTING
Guest blog post by Kevin Meyer,
Latham RSM in North Central and Eastern Iowa

After a very mild winter, attention has turned to spring field preparation and making final planting preparations.  Tillage is complete.  Seed is in the shed, and farmers are eager to get in the fields.

The unseasonably temperatures we’ve experienced throughout much of March and early April have many farmers asking me whether it’s Too Early to Start Planting.  Although each year is different, Iowa State University has compiled years of research data to show that optimal planting dates in Iowa:

  • April 11 – May 13   Southern Iowa
  • April 12 – May 2     Northeast Iowa
  • April 12 – May 28   Northwest and Central Iowa

A study by Dr. Emerson Nafziger, University of Illinois, showed that corn planted in late April yielded more than corn planted in late March or early April nine out of 12 times.  In a study conducted in 2006 by Dr. Nafziger, corn planted March 30 yielded 40 bushels per acre less than corn planted on April 9.  For the duration of that study, the high temperatures in mid-May were below 50° Fahrenheit.

Although we’ve experienced especially warm air temperatures over the last two weeks, it’s important to monitor soil temperatures as you look to start this year’s planting.  A sustained soil temperature of 50+ degrees is needed for corn to germinate.   Experience tells us that Mother Nature usually has a tendency to correct a warmer than normal March with a wet, cold April.  The return of cold weather is just one of the risks associated with planting corn before the optimum window.

Another thing to consider this spring is that our soils are on the dry side, especially when compared to recent years.  Seedbed preparation should be done with the conservation of moisture in mind this spring to make the most of the opportunities of good field conditions we now have.  Monitor soil temperatures field by field.  Also keep in mind how the amount of residue may affect planting.  Good planter maintenance and preparation will be a benefit once we get to the field.

Be patient and have a safe planting season!

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