COLUMBUS – Crop rotation is the key to maximizing yields while reducing potential problems with insect and diseases. However, some Ohio growers are willing to accept the risks of continuous corn production in the hopes of capturing more profit from higher corn prices.
“The decision to switch to continuous corn should be made carefully. Continuous corn production requires a higher level of management to achieve high yields,” said Peter Thomison, an Ohio State University Extension agronomist.
“Although short term economics may favor corn after corn, each operation is different, and understanding the risks associated with corn after corn is the first step toward managing the practice wisely and economically.”
Yield drag. Many agronomists do not recommend continuous corn, Thomison said, and corn grown following soybeans typically yields about 10 percent more than continuous corn.
Growers face many challenges with corn following corn, and they need to be aware of the issues involved with the production practice, he added.
Residue problems. The biggest issue under continuous corn production is the large amount of residue that is generated.
That residue can result in a variety of planting and harvesting problems, including:
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