Early Planting, Crop Residue Set Stage for Planting in Cool Soils
Deep in the DNA of a corn seed lies a genetic predisposition to thrive in tropical temperatures. The optimum temperature for a corn seedling to emerge is 8090 degrees F. However, soil temperatures at planting are more likely to be at 5055 degrees F - the temperature at which emergence is inhibited.
To help growers select the right product for their planting conditions, researchers at DuPont Pioneer identify and measure the genetic differences among Pioneer corn products and their ability to emerge in high-stress environments. The result is a Pioneer agronomic rating called Stress Emergence.
Pioneer researchers test hybrids in a wide range of stressful environments in the lab and field and measure stand establishment. Hybrids are rated relative to other Pioneer hybrids. No uniform industry rating currently exists.
Pioneer Stress Emergence ratings are assigned on a 19 scale. Ratings of 69 indicate above-average potential to establish normal stands under harsh conditions; a rating of 5 indicates average potential to establish normal stands under stress conditions; and ratings of 14 indicate below-average potential to establish normal stands in cool soils.
Successful stand establishment begins by selecting hybrids with strong Stress Emergence scores. Growers can also take five additional steps to ensure strong emergence:
For more information, contact your Pioneer sales professional, or visit www.pioneer.com.
3.5.2014