What should I do with my immature corn?

 

Delayed planting, lack of growing degree-days, drought, hail or insect damage, or early frost can all result in immature corn at harvest. Depending upon the degree of immaturity, harvesting corn as silage, earlage, or snaplage may result in greater crop revenue than harvesting as high-moisture or dry-shelled corn. This fact sheet summarizes typical corn nutrient values with varying harvest, storage, or processing methods. Pricing methods and considerations are also described that may serve corn crop owners and livestock producers as a starting point to enter value negotiations. Worksheets for calculating crop values  are included in print or as an excel tool that automates calculations.

 

In addition to this publication, Michigan State University Extension had been developing resources to aid producers in the harvest decision making process. Other resources to consider when determining the best option for your immature corn are Assessing late planted corn for harvest as forages, Management guidelines for immature and frosted corn silage, Pricing standing corn silage (more seller perspective/opportunity cost) and the Hay listing network (New and improved with ability for sellers to list Corn silage for sale).