Corn seedling emergence is very dependent on heat accumulation. By conditioning soils, removing previous crop residues and planting into warm, moist soil, crop establishment is sped up and target plant populations are more readily achieved.
Corn requires precise placement and spacing to maximize yield. Each plant that doesn’t emerge, or emerges more than 48 hours after another plant, is lost yield potential. Growers should ensure planters are calibrated and set up according to each seed lot, in addition to inspecting and replacing worn parts, and test the planter to ensure seed is placed properly and uniformly.