corn on corn information

With an increase in corn demand, some farmers are planting more corn-on-corn acres. But demand is not the only factor affecting planting decisions. Soil quality, yield, fertilizer costs, equipment, time and seed choices are just a few of the factors that play a role in planting continuous corn. Conservation management also is an important part of the farming operation.

Every producer’s farm is different. Here are a few things to consider if you plant continuous corn.

• Soil fertility may be affected when crops are not rotated. Some studies have shown yield drag; others have noted no change in yields.

• Will you have to till the land to maximize yield on your farm?

• Do you have the time and/or manpower to plant and harvest additional corn? Have you considered your equipment needs for additional corn acres?

• How is your revenue-per-acre affected?

The links below provide information for farmers to use in their decision-making on the farm regarding continuous corn.

calculator

Ag Decision Maker (AgDM)

articles

"Economists: Corn after corn a continuous challenge for growers” (Feb 2006)
Purdue University

“Equipment considerations for producing corn after corn” (Feb 2007)
Mark Hanna, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Iowa State University Extension

"Impact of Manure on Costs, Returns, and Energy Use on Corn Fields in Iowa”
Michael Duffy, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

“When Corn Follows Corn" (April 2006)
Emerson Nafziger, University of Illinois Extension

“Corn on Corn on Corn on Corn on.....”
Mike Rankin, Crops and Soils Agent
University of Wisconsin - Extension

“All Corn in 2007?" (Feb 2007)
University of Illinois