Cold temps and continuous rains are a concern for many growers in the Corn Belt, which is why we’re seeing a slow start to the planting season. According to the latest Crop Progress Report, only 14% of the nation’s corn crop is planted compared to 42% this time last year. On the soybean front, only 8% of soybeans are planted compared to 22% this time last year.
“When planting runs behind, we start getting questions from growers asking if it’s time to switch to a shorter-maturity hybrid,” says Tom Larson, Stine® corn technical agronomist. “While not every situation is the same, the best answer I can give them is to not rush to make changes. We’re not there yet.”
The main reason we recommend growers stick to their planting plan is that, historically, full-season hybrids outyield early-season hybrids. There’s also still time. Experts from Penn State Extension note that, in most areas, growers should wait until the last week of May before switching to a shorter hybrid maturity. This is especially true for states such as Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and Illinois — areas still well within the optimal corn planting dates for their maturities.
“What’s important for growers in times like these is to not let your anxiety get the best of you; stick to your planting plan as long as you possibly can,” says Larson. “Once the weather gets warmer, heat units will kick in and dry up the soil. There’s still time for corn to mature in a normal fashion.”
Even if growers can’t hit the field for a few weeks, yields should not be compromised by delayed planting. A late start may delay harvest a few weeks, but it’s important for growers to think in terms of growing degree days. Penn State Extension recommends that growers consider the approximate number of growing degree days left in the season before a fall killing frost could strike.
“The more growing degree days you have, the more heat units you allow,” says Larson. “Heat units equate to more mature plants. And, unfortunately, if you make the switch to an early-season hybrid too early, you could rush the maturity process by allowing less time for pollination and grain fill. These processes are critical to yield.”
If late May rolls around and you are still not in the field, it might be time to talk to your local Stine sales rep or agronomist about options. Even then, we recommend switching only to a five-to-seven-day earlier maturity than the full-season hybrid.
“You want to stay as close to your original full-season option as possible,” says Larson. He adds that grain prices, drying costs and whether your crop is used for grain or livestock feeding should be factored into your decision.
If cool temps and frequent rains prevent you from getting into the field, don’t act prematurely. Stick with your original planting plan. If it gets closer to late May and things still haven’t progressed, contact your local Stine sales rep or agronomist to discuss your options before switching to a different hybrid. We’re here to answer your questions and guide your path to success this planting and growing season.