Select high yielding adapted hybrids that produce consistently high yields across 10 locations during the last two years. Plant differing maturity hybrids that reduce disease damage and environmental stress. Complete planting by the optimum planting date, but avoid planting early in poorly drained soils or ground that floods. Adjust seeding rates on a field by field basis with a final stand of 28,000 to 30,000 plants per acre for fields that average 150 bushels per acre. Improve plant stand by inspecting and adjusting equipment.
Larger plants compete with smaller emerging plants.
Planting speed at 4.5 to 5 mph optimizes plant spacing. Fertilize for a realistic yield goal by using the highest yields in 3 of the last 5 years. Use seed firmers to improve seed to soil contact. Crop rotation improves yields since corn planted after beans improves corn yield by 10 to 15 percent.