Hybrid and seeding rate effects on corn yield and economic return across eight site‐years in Nebraska

Abstract Hybrid selection is one of the first and most critical decisions made in a farming operation, and corn ( Zea mays L.) hybrids respond differently to management practices like seeding rates. Understanding the effect of hybrid selection and seeding rate on corn yield and economic return is increasingly relevant as we seek to enhance the rate of productivity and financial viability in farming systems. Research studies conducted in four Nebraska fields during the 2018 and 2019 growing seasons evaluated the effect of hybrids and seeding rates on corn yields and partial economic returns. Eight hybrids and five seeding rates were studied across eight environments. Half of the environments were irrigated, and half were rainfed. Environments, hybrids, and seeding rates directly affected corn yields and the subsequent partial economic returns. The selection of hybrids and optimum seeding rates best adapted to specific environmental conditions resulted in more productivity and profitability. The highest yield ceilings for the hybrids studied ranged from 227 to 254 bushels per acre (overall mean = 237) under a seeding rate range of 27,945 to 41,491 seeds per acre. The highest net returns for the studied hybrids ranged from $81 to $173 per acre (overall mean = $120) with seeding rates ranging from 26,264 to 33,737 seeds per acre. The estimated average optimum seeding rate for maximum yield was 34,424 seeds per acre and 27,881 seeds per acre for maximum net return. Hybrids with longer relative maturities grown with irrigation had higher yield and net return potential compared to shorter maturities grown under rainfed conditions.