Stabilizing Dryland Corn Production in Central Kansas.

With the increased value of corn (Zea mays L.) grain, interest has grown regarding management options to improve and stabilize production in challenging environments. In central Kansas, grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) has been documented to have more consistent grain yields than corn in dryland production. In periods of reduced water availability, sorghum exhibits drought avoidance by delaying pre-flowering growth and development, allowing the plant to capture water later in the season for flowering and grainfill. Although corn does not exhibit this ability, delaying planting can serve a similar purpose. In central Kansas, planting corn earlier so silking occurs before periods of extreme stress has some success, but little research has been conducted regarding delayed planting and its impact. A study evaluating corn growth and yield response to delayed planting was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of delayed planting in central Kansas. Three hybrids ranging from 100-d to 112-d relative maturities were planted at Manhattan, KS, Hutchinson, KS, and Belleville, KS, at four dates ranging from an optimal period in early April until late June. No significant difference in leaf area at tasseling between the first three planting dates was detected at Manhattan and Hutchinson or between the second and third date at Belleville. Yield was not significantly different for the first three dates at Manhattan, declined significantly with the first three planting dates at Hutchinson, and increased between the second and third plating dates at Belleville. These results suggest that later planting may be a viable alternative for maintaining dryland corn yields in some environments.