Recent dry, mild weather may have contractors biting at growers heels to get on and drill maize, but growers should be keeping an eye on longer term weather forecasts, according to KWS UK's John Burgess.
"The short window for establishment means growers must get it right and drilling as soon as the soil is ready ultimately offers the greatest period for growing, giving the yields at harvest," he says.
"There's no point drilling if there is going to be a cold snap and although there are now cold tolerant varieties of maize, the soil temperature still needs to be between 8 and 10C.
"Soil temperature and type, seed-bed and weather should all be factored into account ensuring a safe soil temperature of 8C for light soil and 10C for heavy, with soil temperatures constant for three to four days," he recommends.
However, despite this spring being warmer and drier in contrast to last year, if planning to go ahead early the seed-bed can not be forgotten about, warns Mr Burgess.
"Failing to get the seed-bed right immediately will impede the potential maize is going to give. Maize grows best in aerated soils and a light seed bed. But despite compaction created last year the dry spell has loosened the soil," he says.
According to Mr Burgess getting the correct drill depth and also not rolling post drilling can aid growth. "Unless soil is dry it's important not to drill too deep. Also not rolling after drilling has advantages as it allows the soil to warm up quicker aiding growth."
Seed varieties and fertilisers are also something growers can look at to aid growth. "Fertilising colder soils with a starter fertiliser can promote growth, as well as microlar products and foliar sprays which can be applied directly next to seeds. Starter fertilisers can be quite expensive, but they do give the yields," says Mr Burgess.
"Using an early maturing variety like those in group 12 on the NIAB list, if drilled now will give an early harvest, which could provide greater security in getting silage in the clamp if a poor summer reoccurs," says Mr Burgess.
Acknowledgments: Farmers Weekly and FWi
