Performance of commercial corn hybrids in Illinois, 1983 / 1222

Test ProgramSelection of entries.Each year, producers of hy- brid seed corn in Illinois and surrounding states are invited to enter hybrids in the Illinois performance trials.This testing program is financed by a fee of $35 for each hybrid entered at a location ($50 for irrigated trials).Most of these hybrids are commercially avail- able, although a few experimental hybrids are also entered.In 1983, a survey of popular hybrids was con- ducted among count>^Extension advisers, and the ten most popular hybrids at each test location were added to the trials.These hybrids are marked by an asterisk (*) in the tables.Number and location of tests.In 1983, 16 major tests were conducted at 10 locations in the state (see the map on page 5).These sites represent major soil and climatic areas of the state.Hybrids.There were 662 hybrids from 83 compa- nies tested in 1983.Field-plot design.Three replications of ran- domized complete block or lattice design were used to give each entry an equal chance to show its merits.Planting methods.All trials were planted by machine.All test fields except those at DeKalb, Elwood, Monmouth, Perry, Kilbourne, and Urbana were part of larger cornfields and thus were bordered by other corn.Each hybrid plot was overplanted 30 percent and later thinned to desired stands.Each plot was four rows wide and 25 feet long.The center two rows of each plot were harvested to determine yields.Fertilization.All test fields were at a high level of fertility.Additional fertilizer was plowed down or sidedressed as needed to ensure top yields.Method of harvest.All plots were harvested with a custom-built, self-propelled, corn plot combine.Shelled corn from each plot was collected, weighed, and tested for moisture content.No allowance was made for corn that might have been lost in harv^est.Performance Data Grain yield.Shelled-corn weight and moisture percentage were measured for each plot of a hybrid and converted to bushels per acre of No. 2 shelled corn (15.5 percent moisture).An electronic moisture monitor was used in the combine for all moisture readings.Moisture content.Occasionally, hybrids too late in maturity for a given area are entered in these tests.These hybrids are often high in yield, but their moisture content may make them poor choices for farm use un- less proper drying or storage facilities are available.