A quick review of seed options for the 2004 planting season indicates that many key hybrids will only be available in small seed sizes. Small seed is often considered a challenge rather than an opportunity to reduce input costs. But by making a few key planter adjustments, high-quality small seed can be planted successfully with a significant reduction in seed cost per acre, according to Stephen Smith, Agronomy Services Manager for Mycogen Seeds.

"The size and shape of corn seed is primarily a function of the parent plant's genetics, but placement of seed on the ear can also have an effect. During plant development and grain fill, seed size can be influenced by environmental conditions like high air temperature and low soil moisture. A single ear of corn will produce seed in a number of different classes. Typically, 80 percent of seed orders are for round and flat grade sizes. However, since only 45 percent of produced seed is round or flat, this demand presents a production challenge for the seed industry," Smith explains.

Seed size and its relationship to yield has been a topic of debate since the introduction of mechanical planters, Smith says. "While seed size has been shown to be a valid indicator of vigor for certain crop species, studies evaluating both the size and shape of hybrid seed corn and its performance have found no significant differences in emergence, growth or grain yield," he explains.

When selecting a hybrid, Smith recommends that corn producers should focus on genetic potential, quality (germination potential) and price, rather than size and shape.