Abstract
The processing industry is beginning to adopt narrow row configurations for sweet corn production thinking that plants spaced more equidistant will compete less with each other and weeds, improving yield potential and production efficiency. However, empirical knowledge relating to whether these proposed benefits change with hybrid, N fertility, and planting date is lacking. Narrow row (56 cm apart) sweet corn production was evaluated for improved production efficiency over the “traditional” row configuration (76 cm apart) at identical plant populations (60,000/ha). Yield from seed planted in narrow rows on 1 May was significantly higher than traditional row configuration. Increasing N fertilizer rate (0, 68, 136 kg N/ha) also yielded a positive linear response in yield across the three hybrids. As planting date progressed later into the season (27 May and 19 June), narrow row configuration benefits observed earlier began to diminish. Although increased N fertilizer rates continued to show a positive yield response across all planting dates, the degree of the slope decreased as planting date was progressively delayed suggesting a greater rate of N mineralization from the soil. Plant leaf samples were collected from each plot at silking for N analysis and determination of N use efficiency. Degree of canopy closure was dependent on plant architecture of the hybrid and N fertilizer rate; and may be related to postemergence weed competition and yield potential. The decision to convert to narrow row production would require a significant capital investment in new equipment. An economic assessment of the equipment required in addition to more detailed information on yield response to the narrow row configuration will help the processor make an informed choice when considering conversion.
Published Version
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