Carroll, Iowa - The USDA reported on Monday, April 28, something area farmers already knew; Iowa is significantly behind in getting corn planted with only 3 percent of the intended crop in the ground. Last year at this time Iowa was 12 percent planted. The five year average for 2003 to 2007 is 33 percent planted by this time. Nebraska is slightly ahead at 9 percent planted to date, but well behind their five year average of 21 percent complete. Across the 18 largest corn producing states, only 10 percent of the corn crop is in the ground versus the five year average of 35 percent.

“Cold, wet weather we’ve experienced this spring has prompted a few calls from customers asking about switching maturities,” remarked Craig Williams, operations manager for Renze Hybrids of Carroll, Iowa. “Long term studies show maximum yield advantage is obtained across the Corn Belt by staying with full maturity hybrids through May 27th, so it’s way too early to be concerned about that. Switching to an earlier maturity virtually guarantees a lower yield.”

With corn prices and cash rent at record highs, farmers are anxious to get seed in the ground. Some farmers found ways to sneak around the rains and plant their corn seed. But should they? Among other problems, farmers can expect lower stands due to cold soils and risk a replant situation from evening frosts. “Farmers face seed rot, seedling blight, and damping off (pre-mature death), potential consequences of planting corn in cool, wet soils,” explained Ryan Harms, Renze agronomist. “The bottom line for grain corn farmers is to be patient, wait for the right soil conditions, and plant smart.”

Seed from seed suppliers is tested for germination at various labs across the country, including Iowa State Seed Labs at Iowa State University. A standard warm germination test is performed over seven days in a 77 degree environment. By law, seed companies must post a germination percentage on the bag or tag which is at or below the actual test results so farmers know how that seed should perform in 77 degree soil. But soil temperatures in Carroll County are far from 77 degrees. According to Mark Licht, field agronomist for Iowa State University Extension, ground temps are currently well below 50 degrees.

Cold germination tests may be performed but are not required by law, not typically stated on the bag, and not performed by many seed companies. Cold germ tests are performed over 10 to 14 days in a 51 degree environment which is closer, but still above, current ground temperatures. Based on test results, seed planted in cold soils may see as much as 15 percent or more reduced stand and take longer to get out of the ground.

Tim Renze, co-owner of Renze Hybrids, says their company does perform cold germ tests. “Our name is on every bag we sell so we do everything we can to ensure a top quality product for our customers,” said Renze. “Planting in present low soil temperatures, however, farmers can expect to see lower stands and may see leafing out under the soil surface. The potential yield loss versus waiting another week or two is high. That’s not a good idea with potential $6 corn on the line.”