Raising a high-yielding corn crop requires careful attention to a range of factors, including soil fertility, crop placement, and pest management. Identifying the primary yield-limiting factor in a given field can be challenging. Here are some methods I try and use to help determine what the yield-limiting factor may be in raising a corn crop:

1. Soil testing: Soil testing is one of the most important tools for identifying soil nutrient deficiencies. Soil tests can provide valuable information about the pH of the soil, base saturation and key nutrients. By analyzing the results of soil tests, farmers can identify which nutrients may be limiting crop yields and develop a targeted fertilizer program. I consider it the building block on starting a fertility plan.
2. Scouting: Regular scouting of corn fields can help identify pest and disease problems that may be limiting yields. Early detection of pests and diseases is crucial for effective control, and scouting can help farmers make informed decisions about the best control strategies to use. While fungicides is becoming a staple in most programs, there is still a benefit in walking in your fields.
3. Weather Conditions: Weather conditions can have a significant impact on corn yields. Weather will always play a factor on corn yields, but understanding how it effects your plant can be used to your advantage. A couple of years ago when we were dry in June, we saw a significant drop off in potassium levels in all plants. It was simply too dry for the plant to take in the Potassium when it was supposed to. We were positioning farmers to gear up for an early harvest because no potassium usually means weak stalks late season. Harvest ended up being a smooth and early and we never ran into the issues we were expecting, but examples like this is how you can understand where weather can effect you.
4. Crop Placement: Crop placement can help farmers maximize their plants genetic potential. Hybrids placed in the wrong situation can easily cost 15-20 bushels to the acre. The easiest fix to this is working with a knowledgeable agronomist and following an established cropping plan.
5. Plant tissue analysis: Plant tissue analysis involves testing the nutrient levels of plant tissues to identify nutrient deficiencies and excess. By analyzing plant tissues throughout the growing season, farmers can identify nutrient deficiencies before they become severe and take corrective action. While it’s hard to make huge changes in season, the data helps you maximize and invest your dollar more efficiently in the coming season.

Identifying the yield-limiting factor in a corn crop requires careful attention to a range of factors. By using soil testing, scouting, weather monitoring, crop placement, and plant tissue analysis, farmers can identify potential problems and develop strategies to address them. By addressing the yield-limiting factors in their fields, farmers can optimize their crop yields and improve their bottom line. If we can’t determine what is holding back your yield, its hard to make a more profitable plan moving forward.