Crop Scene Investigation - 14 Solved: Why is corn breaking down in Chuck's best dirt?
Sunday, January 4, 2009
by David Townsend
Sidewall compaction during planting was the source of trouble in Chuck's corn.
It was simply too wet when he headed to the field with the planter.
As Chuck rolled over the wet soil, the planter's disk openers applied horizontal pressure and compacted the sides of the seed row.
If the soil had stayed wet, the seedling roots would have been able to push through the wall and establish a root system. But the weather turned dry and the walls hardened so much that the roots couldn't penetrate through. Instead, they grew along the path of least resistance – down the seed slot creating tomahawk roots. As a result, they were unable to access the moisture and nutrients required to grow and prosper.
When we walked around the field, we could see spots where the seed row was still cracked open. When planted in drier conditions, the soil closes around the seed with noside-wall smearing and provides good seed-to-soil contact.
So why didn't the knoll have the same problem? The answer is simple – better drainage. You can plant the knoll whenever you want because it's so well drained, said Chuck.
Don't take for granted that your best dirt will always perform. No matter how good the land, planting into a wet seedbed can cause problems like sidewall compaction, which limits the corn plants development and yield potential.
Its tough to be patient when it comes to getting your crop into the ground, especially in a uneven spring. But sidewall compaction is a real threat which can be prevented by delaying planting until soils are sufficiently dry. A seedbed with the proper amount of moisture, combined with a well-maintained planter and adequate planting depth, will add up to good seed-to-soil contact and row closure for a better yield every time. Congratulations to John Kapteyn, Phelpston, for his correct answer. BF
David Townsend, CCA, is Technical Information Manager for NK Brand, Syngenta Seeds. He is based near Clinton.