Yield Calculator Corn

Corn Yield Calculator

Estimate your corn yield using the ear count method. This method is often used before harvest to get an early estimate.

(Count ears in a row length representing 1/1000th of an acre. E.g., for 30-inch rows, this is 17 feet 5 inches.)

(Typical range: 14-20)

(Typical range: 25-40)

(Commonly 75,000 to 90,000. Use 80,000 as a general average.)

function calculateCornYield() { var earsPer1000thAcre = parseFloat(document.getElementById('earsPer1000thAcre').value); var avgRowsPerEar = parseFloat(document.getElementById('avgRowsPerEar').value); var avgKernelsPerRow = parseFloat(document.getElementById('avgKernelsPerRow').value); var kernelsPerBushel = parseFloat(document.getElementById('kernelsPerBushel').value); var resultDiv = document.getElementById('cornYieldResult'); if (isNaN(earsPer1000thAcre) || isNaN(avgRowsPerEar) || isNaN(avgKernelsPerRow) || isNaN(kernelsPerBushel) || earsPer1000thAcre <= 0 || avgRowsPerEar <= 0 || avgKernelsPerRow <= 0 || kernelsPerBushel <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter valid positive numbers for all fields.'; return; } // Formula: (Ears per 1/1000th Acre * 1000 * Average Rows per Ear * Average Kernels per Row) / Kernels per Bushel var estimatedYield = (earsPer1000thAcre * 1000 * avgRowsPerEar * avgKernelsPerRow) / kernelsPerBushel; resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Estimated Corn Yield: ' + estimatedYield.toFixed(2) + ' bushels per acre'; }

Understanding Corn Yield and Its Estimation

Estimating corn yield before harvest is a crucial practice for farmers, agronomists, and agricultural businesses. It helps in making informed decisions regarding storage, marketing, and future planting strategies. While actual yield can only be determined after harvest, pre-harvest estimation methods provide valuable insights into potential outcomes.

What is Corn Yield?

Corn yield refers to the amount of corn grain produced per unit of land area, typically measured in bushels per acre (bu/acre) in the United States. A bushel of corn weighs approximately 56 pounds. High yields are generally desirable as they indicate efficient production and greater profitability.

The Ear Count Method for Yield Estimation

The calculator above utilizes a common pre-harvest estimation technique known as the "ear count method" or "yield component method." This method relies on counting and measuring key components of corn ears from a representative sample area. The basic principle is to estimate the total number of kernels per acre and then convert that into bushels.

Key Components of the Formula:

• Ears per 1/1000th Acre Sample: This is the most critical input. To obtain this, you need to measure a specific length of row that represents 1/1000th of an acre based on your row spacing. For example, in 30-inch rows, a 1/1000th acre sample length is approximately 17 feet 5 inches. You then count all harvestable ears within this measured section. Taking multiple samples across the field provides a more accurate average.
• Average Rows per Ear: After counting ears, select several representative ears from your sample. Count the number of kernel rows around the circumference of each ear and average them. Corn typically has an even number of rows (e.g., 14, 16, 18).
• Average Kernels per Row: For the same representative ears, count the number of kernels in one or two rows from each ear and average them. Be careful not to count kernels at the very tip that are not fully developed.
• Kernels per Bushel (Constant): This is a conversion factor. The number of kernels required to make one bushel of corn can vary based on hybrid, moisture content, and kernel size. A common average used for estimation is 80,000 kernels per bushel, but it can range from 75,000 to 90,000. Using a value closer to 75,000 might be appropriate for larger, heavier kernels, while 90,000 might be used for smaller kernels.

How to Use the Calculator Effectively:

1. Take Multiple Samples: Do not rely on a single sample. Walk a W-shaped or Z-shaped pattern across your field and take at least 5-10 samples from different areas to account for field variability.
2. Measure Accurately: Ensure your row length for the 1/1000th acre sample is precise. Use a tape measure.
3. Select Representative Ears: When counting rows and kernels, choose ears that reflect the average development in your field, avoiding unusually small or large ears.
4. Consider Field Conditions: This method provides an estimate. Factors like disease, insect damage, drought stress, or early frost after sampling can still impact final yield.

Example Calculation:

Let's say you take a sample and find:

• Ears per 1/1000th Acre Sample: 80 ears
• Average Rows per Ear: 16 rows
• Average Kernels per Row: 30 kernels
• Kernels per Bushel: 80,000

Using the formula:

Estimated Yield = (80 ears * 1000 * 16 rows/ear * 30 kernels/row) / 80,000 kernels/bushel

Estimated Yield = (38,400,000) / 80,000

Estimated Yield = 480 bushels per acre

This example demonstrates how the calculator processes your inputs to provide a quick yield estimate.

While this calculator provides a valuable estimate, remember that it's a snapshot in time. Final yield can still be influenced by environmental factors leading up to and during harvest. It serves as an excellent tool for early planning and assessment.