Des Moines, Iowa
December 5, 2008
With the rise in continuous corn
production and the growing popularity of no-till, growers are
looking to combine these two practices while still maximizing
yields. That's why Pioneer
Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, and the
University of Missouri are
joining forces in a four-year study to research the impact of
high residue/corn stover on yields in corn-after-corn, no-till
fields.
The first wave of studies shows that hybrids with stronger
emergence scores bring home greater yields to growers in
high-residue fields, as does shredding stalks.
"At Pioneer, we receive many questions from growers about the
breakdown of residue," says Greg Luce, Pioneer area agronomist
in eastern Missouri. "Growers want hybrids that have great stalk
integrity, but following the growing season, have the ability to
break down as well."
The four-year study will compare several methods of working with
residue, including no-till fields where corn is planted between
residue, stalks are shredded into small pieces, stalks are
baled, nitrogen is applied to increase stalk degradation and row
cleaners are used during planting.
"This study is important for today's growers," says Bill
Wiebold, state Extension specialist for corn and soybeans at the
University of Missouri. "In recent years, growers have been
planting more continuous corn. We want to make sure yields
aren't suppressed in high-residue situations."
The study will be conducted over a series of four growing
seasons, ending in 2011. Yields for this year's study ranged
from 170 bushels per acre on the low end to 200 bushels per acre
on the high end. The study takes place at the University of
Missouri Bradford Research and Extension Center near Columbia,
Mo.
"This is a practical farming research study that will offer
answers to growers across the Corn Belt," says Luce. "There is
not a great deal of industry research available to share with
growers on the topic of managing high residue. With this study,
we will be able to provide growers with helpful management
suggestions and assist them in making the greatest possible
profit from our products."
The study is part of the Pioneer Crop Management Research Awards
(CMRA) program that provides funds for agronomic and
precision-farming studies by university and USDA cooperators
throughout North America.
Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is the world's leading
source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers
and grain and oilseed processors. With headquarters in Des
Moines, Iowa, Pioneer provides access to advanced plant genetics
in nearly 70 countries.
DuPont is a science-based products and services company.
Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating
sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier
life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries,
DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services
for markets including agriculture and food; building and
construction; communications; and transportation.
® Registered trademarks of Pioneer Hi-Bred.
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