To maximize yields, you have to maximize the potential of each seed you plant. As Farm Journal Associate Field Agronomist Missy Bauer explains in episode 6 of Corn College TV that starts with each plant emerging within a certain time of all of its neighbors.
“Uniformity in germination means that every plant has to emerge within 48 hours of one another,” Bauer says. “Otherwise the plants compete for light, water and nutrients.”
If there is too much competition, the plants will never catch up.
“Those plants will delayed in growth, which will lead to lower ear count and unharvestable ears,” she says.
There are five reasons plants will emerge at different times:
· Uneven planting depth
· Pinched residue in the seed trench
· Insects
· Seedling blight
· Diseases
Learn more in Episode 6 of Corn College TV.
