Cambridge, southwestern Nebraska | After the drought the last couple of years I cut back to 16,000 on most of my acres. Had some at 17,-18,000 on more favorable ground. Since the year turned out better for rain I think I may have limited our yield a little by not planting a bit more. The ears were completely filled to the end and very few stressed spots are seen.
Prior to 2012 I was planting close to 18,000 on most acres. I'm thinking that for my area and the hybrids I use 17,000 or so is about where I want to be. I don't know if a thousand plants one way or another makes a whole lot of difference but you want to get a nice canopy and have enough plants to insure a decent stand if you lose a few.
I've been planting LG Seeds for 3 years. 5618 was phenomenal this year. 2552, 2555 and 2602 will take a lot of stress also and have done well. I like the ear flex LG has in their seed lineup. We've been seeing areas where we're getting 10 bu./ thousand plants. |
Changing up the cropping plan - thinking of planting sorghum instead of Corn next year
