By Scout Nelson
North Dakota farmers are preparing for the 2026 corn planting season as soil temperatures slowly warm across the state. Early planning decisions, including hybrid selection, soil preparation, planting depth, fertility management, and pest control, are expected to play a major role in crop success and farm profitability this season.
Jeff Stachler, NDSU Extension Cropping Systems Specialist at the Carrington Research Extension Center, along with Brady Goettl, NDSU Extension Soil Science Specialist, highlighted that selecting the right corn hybrid remains one of the most important decisions for maximizing corn yields and profitability. Research shows that hybrid selection, crop rotation, and uniform crop emergence can greatly improve production results.
Farmers are encouraged to inspect planters before planting begins to ensure equipment is working correctly. Proper soil moisture and soil temperature are also important before tillage and planting operations start. Corn germination improves when average four-inch soil temperatures approach 65 degrees Fahrenheit, helping plants emerge faster and more uniformly.
Planting depth and seed spacing also influence yield potential. Most experts recommend planting corn at about two inches deep to support strong root development and even emergence. Recommended seeding rates vary across North Dakota depending on rainfall conditions and drought risk.
Fertilizer management remains another major concern this season due to rising fertilizer prices. Farmers are encouraged to conduct soil test fields and use fertilizer efficiently instead of simply reducing fertilizer applications. Residual nitrogen left in fields from 2025 may help lower fertilizer needs during 2026. Specialists also remind growers to maintain balanced levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to avoid limiting crop growth.
Crop protection continues to be important as several pests and diseases increased during 2025. Waterhemp resistant to several herbicides has been identified in southeastern North Dakota. Tar spot disease also spread into more fields during the previous season, while northern corn rootworm populations reached their highest levels in ten years in some counties.
Farmers are encouraged to scout fields regularly throughout the growing season to monitor weeds, insects, and diseases early. Proper management decisions during planting and crop development can help protect yields and improve long-term profitability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Corn, Sustainable Agriculture