Maximizing Corn Efficiency with Skip-Row Systems
Applied Research
ConnOr Peacock
Fayetteville
Abstract
Rising input costs and persistently low commodity prices have placed financial pressure on corn (Zea mays L.) producers in North Carolina for years. Seed costs represent a significant portion of production expenses, yet they are often considered non-negotiable due to concerns about potential yield loss. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether alternative skip-row planting configurations with reduced seeding rates could maintain yields comparable to conventional planting while lowering seed costs in Corn (Zea mays L.) production systems, particularly on marginal to below-marginal land. A replicated strip trial was conducted using a 12-row Kinze 2300 no-till planter with 30-inch row spacing. The experimental design included one control and two planting treatments, with each treatment replicated four times in the field. All treatments used a hybrid corn variety with 118-day relative maturity. The control treatment utilized a conventional planting configuration with all 12 row units engaged at approximately 26,000 seeds per acre. Treatment one followed a plant 2, skip 2 configuration and treatment two followed a plant 2, skip 1 configuration. Both treatments had a reduced effective seeding rate of approximately 20,500 seeds per acre. Results indicated that the plant 2, skip 2 treatment produced lower yields compared with the conventional planting configuration. However, no statistically significant difference in yield was observed between the conventional system and the plant 2, skip 1 treatment. The conventional planting configuration averaged 151.8 bushels per acre, whereas the plant 2, skip 1 configuration averaged 151.2 bushels per acre, demonstrating comparable yield performance between the two systems despite the reduced seeding rate. With seed costs averaging $320 per bag, the reduction in seeding rate associated with the plant 2, skip 1 configuration corresponds to a seed cost savings of approximately $21 per acre. These results indicate that modified skip-row planting configurations may provide an effective strategy for reducing seeding rates without negatively affecting yield potential. Preliminary data shows that adoption of this approach may improve economic efficiency for producers. Since the preliminary data showed promise, we will be implementing this research again for 2026.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Conner Peacock
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Peacock, C. , North Carolina State University, North Carolina, 28306