Agronomic Practices for Corn-After-Corn Production
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Increased Corn-After-Corn Acres
Demand for corn remains strong causing some growers to consider including more corn in their crop rotation. For many, that means more corn-after-corn production.
Yield is generally lower in corn after corn. Yield reductions of 15-30 bu/acre are not uncommon in corn after corn compared to corn after soybean.
This yield reduction can be due to several factors, many of which can potentially be mitigated by careful agronomic management.
Corn Yield Affected by Cropping Sequence
The Corn and Soybean Rotation Effect - Lauer, Porter, Oplinger
- University of Wisconsin
Factors that Reduce Corn-After-Corn Yield
Early-season challenges:
Heavy corn residue
Soil temp 5-10 degrees cooler
Waterlogged soils
Nitrogen tie-up when surface applied
Slow corn growth
Seedling disease
Increased insect pressure
Mid- and late-season challenges:
High disease inoculum levels, leading to increased leaf, stalk, and ear disease
Nitrogen deficiency
Managing Corn After Corn
Tillage
As tillage intensity decreases, rotation becomes more beneficial
Tillage System by Crop Rotation Interaction
Purdue University Long-Term Tillage Study (1975-2008 Data)
Nitrogen management
Avoid surface nitrogen applications; corn residue will tie up nitrogen as it decomposes
Band nitrogen 7 to 8 inches deep
Consider using starter fertilizer that contains nitrogen
Disease management
Plant diverse genetics with good disease resistance*
Consider a foliar fungicide application if needed
Insect pest management
Plant Bt hybrids
Use high-rate insecticide seed treatments
Consider using in-furrow insecticides
Use foliar insecticides when needed
Corn after corn can provide good returns but requires more management and is prone to more yield risk than corn after soybean. Following the tips above, along with selecting highly productive soils, will increase the chance for success.