Ask The Agronomist Blog
Increasing Plant Populations and Decreasing Row Widths
March 16, 2012
Posted by:
Doug Score
Growers are looking to increase yields by increasing plant populations. For years we have pushed populations in the traditional 30-inch row configuration, with some growers planting up to 38,000. Currently, many growers in Region 17 have gotten to the point of narrowing their row configuration to spread out their plant stands. Most growers are going from the typical 30-inch row to 20-inch row spacing due to their equipment suppliers’ product lines being limited to 20-inch equipment. West Central Indiana is roughly planting 10 percent of the corn acres in 20-inch rows, where the other areas in Region 17 — including Southeast Indiana, Central Ohio and Southern Ohio— are probably around one percent or less. As time passes, we will see these percentages increase.
One thing I've learned when talking with growers about narrower rows is their information doesn't agree with data found on the Internet. The majority of data found on the Internet shows break-even yields. Every grower I've talked to that has narrowed rows to 20-inch from the traditional 30-inch has seen an increase in yields. One grower claimed he saw a 7 to 10 bushel increase from 30's to 20's and another 7 to 10 bushel increase from 20's to 15's. Obviously, our hybrids are evolving with these higher populations and most of the information found on websites are either outdated or are from planting seed not suited for narrow rows.
At Stine, we are leading the charge for higher yields through higher populations in our research and breeding. We are pushing the envelope in our testing programs of 20-inch and 12-inch corn row configurations at various populations. We are testing our hybrids of today along with hybrids that won't be seen for several years. It's exciting to be a part of a cutting-edge company that is solely committed to bringing the grower the highest profit per acre.
Along with many growers in Region 17, my family farm has made the switch to narrower rows. We made the switch to 15-inch row corn. We will be planting several plots, testing numerous varieties and methods across several soil types. I look forward to sharing the information and comparing notes with other narrow-row growers planting our products.
Rotating Chemistry
October 10, 2011
Posted by:
Doug Score
In addition to the challenging planting season many growers have encountered in my region and in several other areas, the number one concern I hear from growers is about glyphosate-resistant weeds. As many of you know, a glyphosate resistance can build up due to the continual planting of the same crop with the same resistance package.
In order to combat this issue, I’ve been talking to many growers about the importance of rotating your field’s chemistry. For the growers in my area, which is central Indiana, south-central Ohio and northeast Kentucky, I’ve recommended using Stine LibertyLink® technology system for soybeans, to combat those weeds. Your Stine Regional Sales Agronomist is always available to work with you to recommend the best weed control package for your operation, don’t hesitate to ask us. We want you to be getting the highest yield from your acreage.
