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Agronomic Crops Network

Ohio State University Extension

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Hybrid Selection

Selecting a group of hybrids for planting is a key step in designing a successful corn production system. To stay competitive, growers must introduce new hybrids to their acreage on a regular basis. During the past 40 years, the genetics of corn hybrids has improved steadily, which has contributed to steady increases in grain yield potential ranging from 0.7 to 2.6 percent per year. 

Growers should choose hybrids best suited to their farm operations. Corn acreage, soil type, tillage practices, desired harvest moisture, and pest problems determine the need for such traits as drydown rate, disease resistance, early plant vigor, plant height, etc. End uses of corn should also be considered (see the section on Specialty Corns). Will the corn be used for grain or silage? Will it be sold directly to the elevator as shelled grain or used on the farm? Capacity to harvest, dry, and store grain should also be considered. The most important factors for hybrid selection in Ohio are maturity, yield potential and stability, stalk quality and disease resistance.