The Rathjen family achieved notable success in national crop yield contests, with 13-year-old Rylan Rathjen producing a 400-bushel corn yield, according to a May 31 article. Farming near Dalhart, Texas, Kenny Rathjen and his son Rylan have focused on maximizing yields despite the persistent wind and dry soils characteristic of the High Plains.
Kenny Rathjen credits his father Richard for instilling strong farming values: “I owe everything to my father for teaching me so I could teach Rylan a good work ethic and farming practices.” The family has consistently participated in state and national yield contests. This past season, Kenny secured first place at the state level in Oklahoma, Richard placed third nationally in no-till corn, and Rylan earned third place nationally with his debut entry. Kenny also acknowledged seed salesman Parker Noel’s role in selecting productive hybrids.
Rylan’s contest entry yielded 400.55 bushels on a 50-acre irrigated field known as Circle 88. “It got 8 gallons per acre of water,” Kenny said. “That’s big water where we come from. It’s the first time we’ve grown 400-bushel corn there.” Rylan was actively involved throughout the season by maintaining irrigation equipment and handling field residue.
In addition to their achievements with corn, Kenny has pursued high yields with grain sorghum (milo), winning first place alongside partner Monte Simerly at the National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest using intensive fertility programs involving manure application, anhydrous ammonia starter treatments, and fertigation through pivots. He described applying over one pound of nitrogen per expected bushel: “I’m putting 250 lb. to 280 lb. of nitrogen out there per acre.”
Kenny also employs unique management techniques such as strategic herbicide applications to encourage tillering—a practice inspired by historical wheat burning methods recommended by agronomist Brian Taylor—and increased use of humic acid after discussions with other high-yield growers at industry events.
Michelle Rathjen manages farm finances while ensuring that education remains a priority for Rylan: “We told him even though he wants to come back to the farm, he needs at least a two-year degree, whether it’s vo-tech, ag business or ag science.” Despite economic pressures and drought conditions facing producers this year, Kenny said he remains optimistic about future harvests: “I truly believe it’ll all work out… It’s going to be a tough one but hopefully everything goes well for all of us.”
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