All across the Corn Belt, a new crop is going up — only this one features a different type of plant.  With the ethanol industry shifting into high gear, the number of ethanol plants operational or under construction has never been higher.

While the situation is a boon to corn growers by creating  increased demand and higher corn prices, in some markets growers will be forced to look at increased  corn plantings in order to feed the ethanol industry’s growing appetite.  With continuous corn, the grower will have a new set of considerations when deciding which hybrids to plant, how the decision will impact corn pest populations, and how best to maintain plant health and vigor.

According to Stine Seed Company corn agronomist Rich Howe, CCA, the most important decision is choosing the right genetics.

“When you’re considering corn-on-corn , the genetics package is essential to plant performance,” Howe says. “Bargain seed is no bargain when you know you’ll be investing higher amounts in your inputs. Stine has developed some of the industry’s most elite corn genetics specifically to stand up to the additional pressures experienced in continuous corn situations.”

When looking at a continuous corn rotation, Howe advises growers to keep in mind these factors:

• Pest populations – Check last year’s scouting records for any signs of significant populations which – with the right food – could cause a costly breakout later in the season.
• Nitrogen levels – without the soybean rotation, nitrogen levels could be sub-par with the needs of a vigorous corn crop. Go cheap on the nitrogen and you jeopardize your yield potential, even with the most powerful seed genetics.
• Genetics, genetics, genetics – As Howe says, pick the best package for your field. Work with your Stine dealer to find the right seed for your situation. Always remember that buying the cheapest seed can often be the most expensive decision you make.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re growing to feed both the livestock industry and the ethanol industry. Which genetics are best? That’s for you and your Stine Seed team to decide.