Missouri 2007 Corn Performance Tests

Comparing Hybrids

The performance of a hybrid cannot be measured with absolute precision. Uncontrolled variability is involved in the determination of each yield average. This variability exists in all field experimentation; statistics are used as a tool to assist in making decisions. The statistical tool used in these tests is the test of least significant difference (L.S.D.). The L.S.D. is simple to apply. When two entries are compared and the difference between them is greater than the L.S.D, the entries are considered to be significantly different. Differences smaller than the L.S.D. may have occurred by chance and are considered non-significant.

Hybrid performance may seem inconsistent from location to location and from year to year. The factors for these differences are rainfall, temperatures, soil fertility, diseases, insects, and other factors. To obtain an improved estimate of relative hybrid performance, readers should consider results from more than one location or year. In this publication, the authors have tried to facilitate comparisons across years and locations. In each test, the "top yielding" hybrids have been identified. These hybrids are those that did not yield significantly less than the highest yielding hybrid in the test. They are denoted in the tables by an asterisk (*) next to their yields. Thus, by going down a column, readers can readily identify the highest yielding hybrids in a test. By going across, readers can evaluate the relative performance of a hybrid during several years or at several locations. From the standpoint of yield, the most desirable hybrids will be those that are among the "top yielding" hybrids the greatest number of times.

Although yield usually receives first consideration, other agronomic characteristics may be equally important when selecting a corn hybrid. Stalk strength, maturity and resistance to insects and diseases are among the hybrid characteristics that deserve careful consideration. Later maturing hybrids may require more drying. The maturity classification listed for each hybrid in this bulletin is based solely on information supplied by the entry's sponsor. A hybrid with abnormally low or high moisture content may be incorrectly classified for Missouri conditions. Poor stalk strength and/or susceptibility to pests may decrease harvestable yield because of lodging or stand loss.

The Missouri Variety Testing Program does not make specific recommendations for hybrids. Farmers growing a new hybrid for the first time should consider all the information available and then grow a small acreage to determine adaptability. This should be the practice for all new hybrids regardless of origin.