The decision to plant corn should be based on economic returns estimated from enterprise budgets which can be found at most land-grant universities. Under conditions of low corn yields, or alternative high value crops, corn may not be the most economical crop to grow. In general, if corn yields are three times the yield of soybeans and prices for corn are at least half the price for soybeans, growing corn is a profitable enterprise. The optimum planting date varies by latitude in the Corn Belt. Optimum planting dates are generally April 15 in the southern Corn Belt to May 7 in the north. In general, begin planting as early as soil conditions allow (about two weeks earlier) after April 1 in the southern Corn Belt and April 30 in the northern Corn Belt. Check with your insurance company to ensure that you have coverage when planting early.
For more information on this or other topics related to corn production, contact your state extension corn specialist or your local extension educator/agent.
The following is the link to the corn extension specialists: state extension corn specialist
