The recent warmer-than-average weather throughout the Midwest may leave growers anxious to hit the fields, but remember to have patience and wait until ideal planting conditions are not in question. That said, if the soil temperature and moisture levels are optimal, don’t hesitate. Planting early can help the plants avoid the extreme heat of summer during pollen shed and pollination, but if cooler and wet soils persist, it’s safer to wait.
What happens when you plant too early?
Corn: When corn is planted into cold soils, you increase your risk of delayed or uneven emergence. If corn seed sits idle in the ground, it causes the young plant to live on the energy and nutrients stored in the seed. Simply put, this does not provide a good start for the plant’s root system or the early-season vigor required for consistent yields. And remember that corn imbibes 50 percent of the water it needs for germination within the first three hours after planting. Imbibing cold moisture can severely disrupt the germination process and cause serious issues to the developing embryo.
Soybeans: Planting soybeans into cool, wet soil can lead to emergence problems and leave the seed more vulnerable to chilling injury. This can result in the seed coat being compromised, leading to uneven emergence and poor stands. That said, soybeans are better equipped to handle inconsistent emergence. Corn, on the other hand, needs even emergence to thrive, which is why we often recommend planting soybeans before corn.
Recommendations
We recommend growers monitor their fields with a soil thermometer before planting every three to four days. Always check and record soil temperatures at a consistent depth, around two inches, and at the same location and within a similar timeframe each time, ideally in the early morning before the sun heats the soil. When soil temperatures reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the extended weather outlook is favorable, it’s likely safe to begin planting.
For corn, the ideal seedbed that will generate the best early-season performance of your product is when you have adequate soil moisture and a consistent soil temperature of more than 52 degrees Fahrenheit. Corn typically germinates within seven days after planting and emerges within 14 to 17 days of planting in an even manner. Planting into conditions that allow the normal growth process to occur allows the corn crop to set up properly and reach the right levels for optimum moisture and fertility utilization.
Soybeans also require a consistent soil temperature above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and an adequate soil moisture range. And for both crops, always check your long-range weather forecast before hitting the field.
For questions related to planting timelines and other agronomic information, contact your local Stine sales rep.