Midwest news and notes
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Agri News, MN
11-28-07
Midwest news and notes
Vagts explains field nutrient value of stover
Iowa State University crop specialist Todd Vagts says that on average, the
dry matter weight of a corn plant is split equally between the grain and stover.
To determine the total stover weight, figure the total dry matter weight of the
grain yield -- considering both bushels and moisture. The dry matter weight of the
stover on the field will approximately equal the dry weight of the grain, Vagts
said.
This can vary with field conditions like drought and hail.
Vagts said the actual yield of baled stover depends on how it's harvested.
Shredding and raking might enable you to capture 80 percent. Raking only, about
65 percent and just baling the combine windrow, 50 percent.