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Moisture Loss and Corn Yields on a Silt-Pan Soil as Affected by Three Levels of Water Supply¹

ABSTRACT

Soil moisture extraction patterns were obtained on a silt-pan soil during four corn production seasons at three levels of water supply. Water requirements under southern Illinois average temperature conditions were determined for corn at different stages of development. The water requirements were compared with the amount and pattern of rainfall for the previous 21 years in order to estimate irrigation needs for maximum corn yields.

A requirement in excess of 3 to 4 inches of soil-stored water resulted in reduced corn yields. The use of two 2-inch irrigations 10 to 14 days apart during the tasseling and shooting stages of growth resulted in economically desirable corn yield increases 3 out of 4 years. Irrigation other than the 4 inches during tasseling and shooting stage resulted in no yield increases or only slight increases.

Lack of easily available moisture apparently lowers the corn yield potential on this soil in over one-half of the years. Water stored below 2 feet was of very limited direct value to the corn crop. A high state of soil fertility was conducive to efficient water use.

¹ Contribution from Illinois Agr. Exp. Sta., Urbana.

² Assistant Professor of Agricultural Research and Associate Professor of Agronomy Extension and Research, Dixon Springs Exp. Sta., Robbs, Ill.; and Associate Professor, Soil and Water Mechanics, Agricultural Engineering Department, Urbana, Ill., respectively.

Received for publication May 16, 1960. Accepted for publication November 22, 1960.