In the world of variable rate seeding (VRS), field variability matters! The first step is to develop a system that identifies variable fields with a high potential for return to VRS. By utilizing technology platforms to layer soil characteristics (soil type, topography, landscape, slope and drainage) with yield data we can create foundational management zones to base VRS prescriptions. In addition to the soil characteristics mentioned above, soil electrical conductivity and/or soil color along with aerial imagery have been included more recently to fine tune or develop VRS zones. While technology enables synergistic insights from multiple factors, grower knowledge is key to identifying and verifying proper management zones based on historical trends and general productivity of specific areas within each field.

What constitutes the optimum seeding rate in a given field will depend greatly on the genetics of the hybrid selected. Commercially available hybrids undergo extensive genetic and in-field research to help understand individual response to seeding rate. Research has shown that yield will increase along with seeding rate to an optimum point and then decline as seeding rate is increased above that optimum. In addition, each hybrid can respond uniquely to each environment, soil characteristic and population, confirming the need to conduct your own tests and/or consult with a training agronomist. Work with your FS crop specialist to select the right hybrid and best seeding rates for your operation.

Individual grower management practices should also be considered when evaluating hybrids for specifics fields and VRS.  For example, if a grower is planting strip-till, corn-corn and doesn’t anticipate spraying fungicides, reducing the overall planting population may reduce the risk of stalk lodging. Setting up check strips or blocks can help farmers understand the response to seeding rates for a given field and environment. This information can then be analyzed to make adjustment in zones, hybrids, management practices, and rates that influence overall yield. In-Season Monitoring can also provide informative insights regarding stand establishment and the performance of the VRS prescriptions implemented.  Verify that target populations were attained and document areas of poor establishment to help refine yield expectations and add valuable information for future crops.

Variable rate seeding (VRS) has the potential to increase profitability on your operation but the magnitude of the response will depend on several key influential factors. Technology is allowing growers to more easily collect and analyze multiple years of data to make more informed decisions on hybrids and populations. By utilizing this historical data, we can more accurately characterize variability in soils or environments and increase the potential for a more consistent ROI to VRS.