Seed Size, Planting Depth, and a Perennial Groundcover System Effect on Corn Emergence and Grain Yield

The intensive corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) production practices currently used in the Midwestern U.S. concern producers stakeholders. negative impact of these two-crop rotations on environment affects water quality soil erosion increases flooding risks. Due to concerns, cover crops and, specifically, perennial groundcover (PGC) cropping systems have gained greater interest. These species growing patterns compatible with soybean, can help rebuild ecosystem while maintaining good cash crop yields. In addition, also are interested possible effect seed size planting depth uneven emergence corn. successful adoption PGC ultimately depends seedling consistent yield. objective study was understand effects characteristics placement emergence, grain yield, planted using a Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis (KBG)-PGC bare-soil system determine attributes moisture dry-down field when compared conventional system. Commercially-sized sized laboratory represent narrower distribution were KBG-PGC bare at two depths (3.18 6.35 cm). two-year experiments split-plot RCB design four replications. Individual plants flagged ears from each plant harvested individually. Separating lot into different distributions did not affect germination under ideal (standard speed tests) or stressful (cold test) conditions. Seed influence rate yield tillage (bare soils) results indicate that sizing specifications cutoffs by companies suitable for uniform maximum both systems. crucial systems, play role either delayed reduced yields as much 50%. This information is important those considering adopting because it demonstrates more than distribution.