When to Plant Corn in Tennessee

Introduction

If you are a farmer or a gardening enthusiast in Tennessee, one of the crops you need to know how to plant is corn. Corn is a popular crop in Tennessee due to its versatility in the kitchen and the immense nutritional benefits it offers. However, for you to get the most out of your corn crop, you need to know the best timing for planting. In this article, we will delve into when to plant corn in Tennessee.

Corn Planting Seasons in Tennessee

Corn is a warm-season crop that requires a warm soil temperature for optimal growth. Typically, corn growers in Tennessee plant their crops from mid-March to mid-July. However, the best time to plant corn in Tennessee depends on your location in the state. In the eastern part of Tennessee, the average date of last frost is around mid-April, while the western regions experience their last frost around mid-March.

Factors to Consider When Planting Corn in Tennessee

Several factors come into play when determining the ideal planting window for corn in Tennessee. Some of these include:

Soil Temperature

Corn requires a soil temperature of at least 50掳F at a depth of two inches before planting. If you plant before the soil reaches this temperature, your corn crop may not germinate, resulting in poor yields.

Moisture Level

For optimal growth and development, corn requires adequate moisture levels. Farmers in Tennessee should plant their corn when they expect to receive adequate rainfall or have a reliable method of irrigation to ensure their crops receive enough water.

Growing Degree Days

Corn requires a certain number of heat units known as "growing degree days" to reach maturity. The optimal number of growing degree days for Tennessee is 2700 degree days for full maturity. Farmers in Tennessee should plant their crops when they have calculated the expected growing degree days during the growing season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, timing is everything when planting corn in Tennessee. The ideal planting window varies based on location, soil temperature, moisture levels, and growing degree days. To maximize your corn yields, it's essential to plant at the right time and monitor the above factors during the growing season. With the right planting techniques and good farming practices, your corn crop will thrive, giving you a bountiful harvest.