Dekalb Seed Planting Rules

Hybrid Selection

• According to Dekalb, selecting the right hybrid seed is vital to a successful crop yield. The type of seed chosen can be based on a number of different factors and characteristics required by the person planting. These include disease tolerance needed, the yield performance expected, the grain quality desired, and the length of time allowed until corn reaches maturity.

Land Preparation

• Dekalb indicates that there are two methods to preparing the land for their hybrid seeds: conservation tillage and conventional tillage. Conventional tillage includes the use of animals or machines to create harrowed rows. Conservation tillage methods are intended to help preserve soil, reduce costs and preserve moisture. This method requires the use of Roundup weed killer prior to planting.

Seeding Rate

• Seeding rate guidelines are provided to the planter based on the type of hybrid purchased. Seeding rate can have a large impact on the crop yield. Delkab recommends following the seeding rate specified closely. Higher seed rates are best for fertile soils that have a high water capacity. Low seeding rates are best for soil in which drought may occur. Additionally, uneven spacing can reduce crop yield.

Planting Depth

• Plant depth will be based upon specific soil and weather factors. Planters in normal conditions should plant seeds 4 to 5 cm deep. In moist conditions, seeds should be planted no deeper than 4 cm. In warm and dry climates, seeds should be planted up to 5 cm deep. Following the proper depth guidelines will help promote proper root development.

Replanting

• Severe crop loss experienced from severe weather conditions or insect infestation may create a need to decide if replanting should be performed. According to Dekalb, the first rule in replanting is to not make a hasty decision: corn plants can recover from damage, and there are many other factors to consider before replanting, including the original planting date and stand, earliest date for replanting and stand, and cost of replanting.

Nutrient Management

• Plants need nutrients to grow. Planters can provide these nutrients with either organic manure or fertilizers and micronutrients. There are pros and cons to each method, and factors like soil fertility should be considered before making a decision. Application time will vary, depending on region and type of nutrients used.

Water Management

• Different growth stages will require different amounts of water. Early stages of plant growth require smaller amounts of water, while later stages require the maximum amount of water for optimal plant growth. Managing water effectively can increase crop yield.

Weed Management

• Weeds can greatly reduce crop yield. They fight against the corn crop, stealing water and much needed sunlight. Proper weed management can reduce this risk. Management methods include the use of mechanical equipment, manual removal or the use of herbicides.

Harvest

• Harvest occurs when the seed is considered physiologically mature. There should be a black layer seen at the base of each kernel. Dekalb recommends harvesting once the seed is mature below 20 percent moisture.

Storage

• Grain storage must be adequate to prevent discoloration that can indicate a fungal infection, or powdered grain, which indicates weevil infection. To prevent these conditions, cobs should be shelled right after harvesting. Grain should be stored in a dry and cool climate after it is sun-dried to 11 percent moisture.