(Fig. 1). Corn can be planted before the threat of freezing temperatures has passed for two reasons: 1) the time delay between planting and emer- gence, and 2) the growing point
remains below the soil surface for some time following emergence. More recent studies indicate that the opti- mum time for planting corn in Iowa still falls between April 20 and May 5 (Table 2). However, numerous factors influence the decision of when to start planting corn. Rather than an exact date, soil condition is a key factor to consider. Planting when soils are too wet is not advised, regardless of the date. Under most circumstances, the best time to begin planting corn in Iowa is as early as conditions (soil and temperature) allow. Many producers use soil tempera- ture as a guide to start planting. Planting corn in April generally is not advisable until the soil temperature at planting depth is near 50° F or above. Time to emergence in the field ranges