The yield of a corn plant depends on the genetic potential of a given hybrid, in addition to a number of environmental conditions and in-season management. Although there is little a corn grower can do about mother nature and the genetics of a plant (other than selecting the hybrid best adapted to a given location, and properly supplementing the site’s inherent fertility and availability of …
After corn is harvested, farmers begin to prepare the soil for the next season by mixing in nutrients, such as potassium and phosphorus, with some form of tillage (breaking up soil) to incorporate them. In the spring, farmers will do a light tillage pass to create smooth bedding for planting. When the ground temperature is ready (50°F and expected to rise), farmers will plant the corn seeds. F…