Farm Progress released guidance on April 22 for farmers facing delays in corn planting, outlining how to make informed decisions about switching from full-season to shorter-season hybrids. The organization said that understanding growing degree days (GDDs) and using decision tools can help producers minimize unnecessary hybrid switches and avoid potential yield loss.
This topic is important because unpredictable spring weather can lead to late planting, raising questions about the best hybrid maturity selection. Making the right choice ensures crops reach physiological maturity before the first killing frost, which is crucial for maximizing yield potential.
According to Farm Progress, corn development depends on the accumulation of thermal heat units measured as GDDs rather than calendar days. The organization explained that each hybrid requires a specific number of GDDs to mature, and most seed companies provide these values for reference. Tools like the U2U Corn GDD decision support tool from the Midwest Regional Climate Center help estimate silking and maturity dates based on location, planting date, and hybrid selection. However, Farm Progress noted that this tool does not account for growing degree day compression when planting is delayed.
The article highlighted research showing that after May 1, hybrids may require approximately 6.8 to 6.4 fewer GDDs per day of delay due to this compression effect. For example, a hybrid needing 2800 GDDs when planted May 1 would need only about 2600 GDDs if planted May 30—a reduction of nearly 200 GDDs—allowing some full-season hybrids to remain viable options later into the season.
Farm Progress emphasized that “delayed planting does not automatically require an aggressive shift to shorter-season hybrids.” By understanding how late-planted corn needs fewer GDDs and combining this knowledge with decision tools and local frost risk data, producers can better match hybrids with their growing season while preserving yield potential.
The organization also supports agricultural communities by offering resources such as market updates and educational programs according to its official website. Farm Progress functions as part of Informa PLC’s Informa Markets Division according to its official website and distributes content through eighteen regional and national brands according to its official website. It aims to deliver agricultural news, market analysis, educational tools according to its official website, organizes events like the Farm Progress Show and Husker Harvest Days according to its official website, extends reach via digital platforms according to its official website, and delivers community-focused programs designed for farm operations nationwide according to its official website.
