Research on Corn Planting Depth

Researchers at DuPont Pioneer recently publicized a two year study on corn planting depth.  Prairie Farmer  publicized the study in their recent issue.  The researchers found that corn planted at a depth of 2 to 3.5 inches out yielded corn planted at shallower depths.  The big reasons are, better plant populations and more even emergence.  These in general are goals in using modern planting equipment.  Properly maintained and adjusted planters make a huge difference.  In addition, a sophisticated monitor will help make sure we are getting the desired results.

I suspect that good hybrids and seed treatments play a roll as well. I would still lean toward planting a bit shallower than the 3.5 inch maximum that the researchers studied.  Warmer soil will play a role in that advice.  On the other hand, it looks like it may be a good idea to make sure that your planter is really planting at least as deep as your chosen depth. According to the researchers it will not hurt to err slightly to the greater a depth.