Kick Planting into High Gear

Start with the right genetics.
While you’ve likely selected your hybrids and varieties for the season ahead, you’ll want to work closely with your retailer and agronomist to identify the right agronomic solutions to help maximize yield potential in every field, no matter the growing environment.

Adjust planter settings.
Your fields are unique, so it stands to reason that your planter settings may need adjustments to match. Remember to check your planter settings between fields, especially when planting seeds that vary in size.

It’s all about timing.
It’s tempting to plant by the calendar, but weather and soil conditions are more important considerations. Ideally, you should strive to plant corn and soybeans when soil temperatures are around 50 degrees and the soil is dry enough to prevent potential unclosed seed slots.

Plant at the right depth.
This is another basic practice that can have a big impact. Plant seeds too shallow and you may have issues with secondary root development later on – and this can lead to yield loss. As a rule of thumb, plant corn hybrids at least 1.5” deep and soybean varieties 1” to 1.5” deep.

Plan ahead.
You may be focused on planting now, but your crops will have emerged before you know it. Now is the time to begin thinking about preemergence herbicides and fertilizer. It may be far too early to know what the 2021 growing season will hold, but with a little preparation – soil testing, data collection and research – you’ll be able to respond quickly to whatever Mother Nature has in store.