That often leads to stand problems, nutrient deficiencies, and drought stress throughout the year. Birds are more likely to hurt stands of shallow-planted seed. Corn planted at the recommended seeding depth (1.5 to 2 inches deep) develop nodal roots below the soil surface, avoiding potential problems.
Planting into excessively wet soils causes similar root development problems. Though planting depth might be sufficient, the seed furrow openers will compact the seed furrow walls. The soil shrinks when it dries, particularly in clay soils, causing the seed furrow to open and expose the nodal roots — just like shallow planting. The hard, compacted seed furrow walls also prohibit root penetration.
Growers should strive for 24,000 to 32,000 plants per acre. The exact number depends mainly on the field's yield potential, the planter row width and the planting date.