Margy Fischer, Farm Journal Machinery Editor
Corn production is all in the family at AgriGold. The company has built their hybrid portfolio around five family classifications.
AgriGold agronomist Mike Kavanaugh says that to reach the yield expectations of the future, the company is employing a stair step approach. All of the steps must be in line to achieve the 300-bu. yield threshold.
“Not all genetics are created equal,” he says. “We’ve tracked family yields since 2003.”
The families have specified responses to nitrogen timing, fungicide application, population rates and other production factors.
AgriGold’s approach to nitrogen timing has been included in the Farm Journal Test Plots. You can read more here:
AgriGold reports in their studies, they’ve found an average 9.7 bu/acre yield gain when a fungicide was applied.
As for population, Kavanaugh says he foresees hybrids pushing populations to 36,000 to up to 42,000 plants per acre. The family classifications can provide guidance by which families can handle increased populations with thicker rinds and bigger root systems. If populations are kept low, the family system can provide information on what hybrids can provide a flex ear.
Another production factor AgriGold takes into account is row spacings. “Once we go over 36,000 plants, you need to narrow rows to either twin rows or 20” rows,” he says.
He says AgriGold continues their research efforts. “We’re always testing something. Our goal is to help you make more money and raise more corn.” Tests this year include population/row spacing studies with six genetics groups planted at 28,000 to 43,000 plants per acre in twin rows and 30” rows at 37 test field locations from Mississippi up to Iowa.
You can e-mail Margy Fischer at mfischer@farmjournal.com
.
Thank you to the 2009 Corn College Sponsors:
