Video – How to Identify Corn Vegetative Growth Stages
This video shows how to identify vegetative growth stages of corn or sorghum in the field. In this case we inspect two different examples of corn that have progressed into rapid growth stages.
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Posts From Erick Larson, State Extension Specialist - Grain Crops
How to Determine Corn Vegetative Growth Stages
Vegetative growth stages of corn are determined by counting the number of fully emerged leaves with leaf collars present. It is important to appreciate this methodology since it is a basis for timing many management practices, including herbicide application, sidedress fertilizer, and others.
Improving Corn Response to Nitrogen Fertilizer
Corn response to nitrogen fertilizer is a dynamic situation that becomes considerably more challenging when rain is plentiful. This article gives recommendations to improve corn response to nitrogen fertilizer and reduce risks in the Midsouth.
How late can we plant corn?
When rain or other issues limit planting opportunities, you may be wondering how to proceed with crop planting intentions. This publication helps address that question by explaining how corn responds to late planting when grown in different production systems based upon research conducted at Mississippi State University.
Three Proven Methods to Improve Corn Profitability
In these tough economic times we devote considerable effort to trimming the fat and focusing inputs where they will improve return on investment. The limiting factors will vary, but these are some of many potential factors which are very important.
Spring Nitrogen Fertilizer Recommendations for Wheat and other Small Grains
Our moist climate challenges our ability to fertilize wheat and other small grains. This article outlines best management practices for nitrogen application timing, fertilizer sources, rates and other important practices which can greatly enhance wheat or oat productivity. Nitrogen recommendations are also included for cereal rye grown for seed or grain production.
Cover Crop Termination and Preparation for Corn Planting
Cover crops can improve soil health and water quality and are being grown on more acres. However, their growth extends into the spring and may present challenges for primary crops, depending upon when you decide to terminate them with a burndown herbicide. We have been researching these dynamics so that we may implement strategies to realize benefits while minimize risk for corn production.
2024 MSU Corn Hybrid Demonstration Program Results
Mississippi State goes to great lengths to evaluate, assess and analyze corn hybrid performance, so you have good information to make decisions which improve the profitability of your farm. These Hybrid Demonstration trials are grown in numerous on-farm locations throughout the state where you can better evaluate hybrid performance of our region’s most elite hybrids. Complete results, including yields and plant characteristics from this year’s trials are published here.
2025 MSU Short List of Suggested Corn Hybrids
This publication lists those corn hybrids which have demonstrated superior performance in the Mississippi Corn for Grain Hybrid Trials. No other source tests as many hybrids representing today’s choices in the market. Thus, this is a great starting point and barometer for you to judge performance and select the best corn hybrids for your farm.
2024 Yield Results from the MSU Corn Hybrid Demonstration Program
Mississippi State goes to great lengths to evaluate corn hybrid performance. These Corn Hybrid Demonstration trials are grown in numerous on-farm locations throughout the state where you can better analyze hybrid performance of our region’s most elite hybrids. Preliminary grain yield results from this year’s trials are published here.
How to Plant and Grow Wheat for High Yields
Wheat can be a relatively consistent and productive crop which offers opportunities and diversity for your cropping system. Thus, as fall begins to draw near, we address planting practices and key strategies needed to optimize profitability. For instance, unlike summer crops, early planting substantially increases risks for wheat grain production.
Cover Crop Planting Methods and Seeding Rates
Cover crops can be successfully established using a variety of seeding methods depending upon your cropping and tillage system, cover crop species, and perhaps other factors. This publication offers guidelines to help ensure favorable results.
2024 MSU Short List of Suggested Wheat Varieties
This publication lists those wheat varieties which have demonstrated superior grain production in the Mississippi Wheat and Oat Variety Trials and summarizes their characteristics. This independent information should help you select better varieties which are suited for producing grain in different growing regions of Mississippi.
Cover Crop Species Selection
Cover crop seed selection can be confusing due to the numerous choices available. Different species have traits which let them serve specific purposes. Various goals can be achieved if you realize there are three primary groups of cover crops and consider the resulting benefits and limitations. This will greatly improve your cover cropping outcome.
Burning Stalks – What does it Really Cost?
Tight margins and high expenses tempt us to consider managing crop residue with fire, rather than tillage or other alternatives. However, fire will reduce recycling of organic matter and nutrients. Thus, burning produces several negative consequences that can definitely diminish profit.
Southwestern Corn Borer Monitoring – Week ending 8/10/2024
We have seen our first large spike in Southwestern corn borer of the growing season in the central to northern portion of the state. Fortunately, timely planted corn should be nearing a stage where borers are not much of a
Tips to Prepare for a Successful Corn Harvest
Corn harvest should ramp up soon as grain matures and dries down to an agreeable moisture for harvest. Understanding how weather and other factors affect grain drying, potential harvest losses, moisture dockage and potential aflatoxin issues can greatly help improve your harvest efficiency and success.
How to Estimate Corn Yield Prior to Harvest
Would you like to estimate your corn yield prior to the combine heading to the field? If you are willing to put in a little time, you can make a rough estimate by following these guidelines. While any such method leaves considerable opportunity for error, this process will likely be a good opportunity to learn more about your crop.
Why did the Kernels near the Ear Tip not Fill?
Corn kernel set near the ear tip may vary considerably depending on a number of cultural and environmental factors. These kernels have issues when the plant can’t supply enough energy to support all of them. Therefore, if we want to improve our yields, we need to recognize why kernel set is less than desired, so we can improve management in the future.
MS Ag Industry Council – 2024 MAIC Row Crop Update
We welcome you to attend the Row Crop Update at the 2024 Mississippi Agricultural Industry Council Annual Convention. This event is hosted at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach, Alabama on Wednesday, July 24 starting at 8:00am.
When to terminate irrigation in corn
As the corn crop nears maturity, knowing when you can safely terminate irrigation, without sacrificing yield, or wasting money and labor through unnecessary irrigation is likely the most important decision that will affect your bottom line. This article outlines the steps needed to help make these decisions accurately and reliable.
