MN CropCast: An In-depth discussion about successful corn and soybean planting in 2024

In episode #32 Dave Nicolai and Seth Naeve chat with Dr. Jeff Coulter, University of Minnesota Extension corn agronomist about planting the 2024 corn crop in Minnesota. In addition, Seth, U of MN Extension soybean specialist, discusses the outlook for soybean planting this spring. Jeff talks about optimal corn planting dates, desired soil conditions, corn planting populations and corn maturity hybrid planting dates. Seth also discusses in detail the results of early soybean planting date research and recommendations for soybean planting populations.

While recent snow/rain events in Minnesota decreased the level of moderate drought (D1) ratings in Minnesota to 43% as of March 28th compared to 75% the previous week, Minnesota is still in the category of “Abnormally dry”. However, both agronomists indicate that April precipitation can still have a significant effect on increasing soil moisture, thus corn and soybean planting should proceed in a traditional timetable based on soil conditions and temperatures.

Both Jeff and Seth reference the University of Minnesota Extension Crop management web pages for corn and soybeans as excellent starting points to review guidelines, best practices and potential issues for planting as well as seeding rates based on University of Minnesota applied research trials.

-Corn planting (https://extension.umn.edu/corn/corn-planting)

-Soybean planting (https://extension.umn.edu/soybean/soybean-planting)

In summary: Jeff notes that a field is ready for seedbed preparation when soil in the tillage zone crumbles when squeezed. In contrast, planting on wet soils can create a cloddy seedbed and cause seed furrows to open after planting, diminishing seed-to-soil contact. Good seed-to-soil contact is important, so seeds can quickly and evenly absorb moisture and emerge uniformly. In term of planting times, Jeff cites research that Minnesota corn growers maximize yield when planting in late April or early May. When spring arrives early, a mid-April planting date can produce similar yield as planting in late April or early May.

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Photo Credit: istock-oticki