Many factors drive test weights, but hybrid selection is the biggest, says LG Seeds agronomist.
Big test weights can come with perks – bragging rights, access to premium markets, improved storability. Making them a reality starts with hybrid selection.
In fact, the hybrid you plant is one of the biggest influencers of test weight, says LG Seeds Agronomist Brian Weihmeir. He shares tips on hybrid selection and other major drivers of test weight.
#1. Choose hybrids with good test weight potential
“Some products naturally have higher test weights than others,” Weihmeir says. “Your agronomist or seed salesperson can help you determine which hybrids have higher or lower test weights.”
In Weihmeir’s territory of south-central Illinois, hybrids known for high test weights include:
But your consideration should go beyond a hybrid’s genetic potential for good test weights. “Make sure you’re getting diversity in your hybrid selection,” Weihmeir advises. “And don’t overlook the benefits of plant health.”
#2. Prioritize plant health
“When hybrids maintain better stay-green and plant health, they can pack more starch into the kernels, resulting in higher test weights,” Weihmeir explains. “It’s important to pay attention to defensive hybrids, ones with good plant health that protect you in years when crops are stressed by drought, heat or disease pressure.”
A focus on plant health has been a differentiator for LG Seeds, according to Weihmeir. “Many LG Seeds’ hybrids have strong plant health ratings against diseases like gray leaf spot, Southern rust and tar spot that help them reach higher test weights.”
Tar spot, in particular, has a reputation for curbing test weights. And because tar spot is here to stay, Weihmeir says it should factor into seed choices. “A couple years ago when tar spot was severe, hybrids with good tar spot tolerance scores had better plant health, higher test weights and ultimately, higher yields.”
Of course, plant health goes beyond hybrid selection. “Make sure you have a good fertility program, your soil pH is in line and nutrients are adequate,” Weihmeir advises. “You should also split apply nitrogen so the crop isn’t nitrogen starved midseason.”
He also recommends applying a quality fungicide for an extra boost to maintain stay-green and allow that plant to pack more starch into kernels.
#3. Take advantage of natural drying
A farmer’s conditioning and drying methods can also impact test weights. “Harvesting corn that’s wet and drying it at high heat tends to result in lower test weights versus corn that’s dried naturally in the field or stored in a bin with cooler air put on it,” Weihmeir explains.
But of course, the weather and the hybrid also impact when and how a crop comes out. “Obviously, you don’t want to wait so late that stand and stalk integrity are compromised,” Weihmeir says.
#4. Target earlier planting dates
Earlier planting can also help with test weights. “When you plant corn earlier, you typically harvest drier grain because it has had a bit longer growing season,” Weihmeir explains.
But again, that must be balanced against what Mother Nature delivers. “You don’t want to mud your corn crop in,” Weihmeir says. “Focus on good soil conditions and be ready to go when conditions allow.”
For more tips on maximizing your crop’s potential, reach out to your local LG Seeds agronomist.
