Macros, Micros, and Magical Mixes: Input-intensive Management Impacts on Corn Growth, Yield, and Kernel Weight Determination

Recent increases in crop variable costs, weather variability, emerging diseases, and declines in yearly percent yield gains have driven farmers toward using multiple tactics to enhance corn yield. A popular strategy used to optimize corn yield is through combinations of higher seeding rates, additional macro and micronutrient fertilizer, and prophylactic chemical input applications. However, these management decisions can often be expensive, unnecessary, and may heighten the risk for biological resistance and nutrient losses. Field research trials were established across Indiana, Michigan, and Kentucky to examine corn physiological, yield, and economic responses to different input applications and management intensities. In addition, this project examines the role of input applications and management intensities on corn grain fill period duration and kernel weight accumulation.