For corn, which combination of soil type, soil pH, and amount of fertilizer (soil nutrients) is BEST for crop quality and the amount of corn harvested?

sand with a pH of 6 and high fertilizer (soil nutrients)
silt with a pH of 7 with high fertilizer (soil nutrients)
silt with a pH of 6 and moderate fertilizer (soil nutrients)
silt with a pH of 7 with moderate fertilizer (soil nutrients)
silt with a pH of 6 and high fertilizer (soil nutrients)
sand with a pH of 6 and moderate fertilizer (soil nutrients)
sand with a pH of 7 with moderate fertilizer (soil nutrients)
sand with a pH of 7 with high fertilizer (soil nutrients)

1 answer

For optimal corn growth, several factors play a crucial role including soil type, pH, and nutrient availability (fertilizer). Based on agronomic research and best practices, here are key considerations for each of your options:

  1. Soil type: Silt is generally preferred over sand for corn as it retains moisture better and provides a more balanced nutrient profile.

  2. Soil pH: Corn typically thrives at a pH of around 6 to 7. A pH of 6 is slightly acidic but still generally suitable for corn, while a pH closer to 7 is neutral and often optimal.

  3. Fertilizer: High fertilizer (nutrients) availability is important as corn is a nutrient-demanding crop, particularly for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Taking these factors into account, the best combination for corn cropping quality and yield from your provided options would be:

Silt with a pH of 7 with high fertilizer (soil nutrients)

This option combines the advantages of a good soil type (silt), optimal pH (neutral), and high nutrient availability, all of which contribute to better crop quality and higher yields for corn.