Do not short nitrogen. Because yield expectations for white food corn are less, fertility program may be adjusted as to yield goals. This information has not been validated through research carried out by University of Illinois scientists , but this fact sheet has been prepared under the technical supervision of Emerson D. Nafziger, Steven Eckhoff, and Dale Lattz, College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It is important to have an effective pest control program. In fields with a history of wireworm and true white grub damage, a seed treatment or soil insecticide should also be considered.
Scout fields regularly and monitor for corn leaf aphid, corn rootworm beetles, and Japanese beetles.
These pests can reduce the pollen production and clip the silks. Harvest and Post-Harvest Management Harvesting Food Corn. To avoid excessive mechanical damage to kernels make sure the combine is properly adjusted. Set the clearance and speed of the cylinder according to the operator's manual as a starting point and make slight adjustments in the field as needed. Inspect the housing and flighting on all conveyors and replace excessively worn augers.