Corn Yield Response to Seeding Rate and Row Spacing

• As corn products are developed to have higher yield potential and better stress tolerance, the optimum seeding rate has steadily increased.

• Previous work at the Bayer Learning Center at Monmouth, IL suggests the optimum seeding rate for most corn products is around 38,000 seeds per acre in our yield environment.

• Previous work at the Learning Center suggests row configurations narrower than 30 inches may increase stress reducing potential yield benefits at seeding rates greater than 38,000 seeds per acre.

• This demonstration was conducted to evaluate the yield response to seeding rate and row spacing.

• Treatments consisted of two seeding rates and three row configurations for a total of six treatments.
  • Seeding rates:
    • 35,000 seeds/acre
    • 45,000 seeds/acre
  • Row configurations:
    • 30-inch
    • 20-inch
    • Twin rows on 30-inch centers
• Each treatment was replicated twice.

• The results from this demonstration were contradicting to similar work at the Bayer Learning Center over the past several years
  • Response to either seeding rate or narrower row configuration was not consistent.
  • The very late planting date and other factors may have created more plant growth limitations compared to stresses from plant density.
• The Bayer Learning Centers have generated robust data around optimum plant density for corn. Consult your local Field Sales Representative or Technical Agronomist on tailored recommendations for your specific farm.

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