To Replant Or Not To Replant – Factors You Should Know

The 2010 growing season started off well for many growers, but a recent change in weather patterns has brought thoughts of replanting to the table. Before replanting, growers should have the necessary information to prepare for what Mother Nature might bring their way.

“With the weather cooperating with us earlier this spring, we would not have  seen much of a need for replanting this season,” said Rich Howe, Western Director of Agronomy. “But when the weather changes, our plans change, and this year we’re seeing that change. As the growing season continues, growers should be aware of replanting factors and deadlines to consider before redoing their entire field.”

The decision to replant is a step-by-step procedure that involves analyzing the damage, gathering all necessary decision-making information, calculating possible yield potential, determining any possibility of economic return and utilizing resources.

Both corn and soybeans have key points in their growth and development that determines if the plant can survive a devastating weather disaster. If the growing point of a corn plant is still below the soil, the plant will be able to recover. But if the fifth leaf is above ground, the crop may be damaged beyond repair.

"Soybeans are a different story,” said Howe. “If the two cotyledon leaves on top of the soybean plant are knocked off, growers will face a destructive yield impact and will need to replant.”

Once damage has been done to plants, Howe encourages farmers to wait a full three days to determine the exact amount of damage to the field. Waiting allows growers to see what starts to rot and assess the full damage before making a replanting decision.

“Many times farmers will only walk into the first few rows of the field and believe the entire crop is ruined based on their observation of a small section,” said Howe. “I encourage growers to survey the entire field and check the crop emergence before making any major replanting decisions.”

If replanting is necessary, there are a few items to consider. First look at the calendar date. Howe suggests that a grower can replant corn until July 1 and soybeans until July 10 at the latest. While yields of these late planted crops may be significantly decreased, many farmers will seek any yield possible from the crop. 

“Another consideration is replanting with shorter maturity hybrids,” said Howe. “A shorter maturity hybrid allows for growers to continue to plant corn in the already fertilized field. While additional herbicide costs may ensue, you’re better off replanting corn if the calendar allows.”

It is the last resort, but if the corn is damaged past July 1 and herbicide treatment allows, Howe suggests planting soybeans as a way to gain yield.   

“We have the growers’ best interest at heart,” said Howe. “We’re off to a great start for spring planting and hopefully we won’t have too many replant situations this growing season. But if it does happen, your Stine agronomist is always here to help and advise you.”