How many bushels of corn per acre? Average yields covered

There's a sense of satisfaction that comes from farming, particularly when things work out well. Corn farming is no exception—it depends heavily on careful preparation and thorough planning. One key question that every aspiring corn farmer needs to ask is, "How many bushels of corn per acre?" The answer to this question is crucial as it can influence your approach and ensure your success.

Corn isn't just a fundamental crop—it's a global sensation, nourishing millions and energizing various industries. Its vast popularity entices numerous farmers into the field, hopeful to reap the benefits of this plant.

But is corn farming as easy as it appears? With the right knowledge and effort, it can be. The first step is grasping your potential yield, which leads us to the key question, "How many bushels of corn can you harvest per acre?"

How many bushels of corn can be harvested from an acre of land?

The latest US Department of Agriculture Crop Report released in 2024 stated that the national average corn yield in the United States reached a record-high 183.1 bushels per acre, with a growth of 2.1 bushels per acre compared to the yield forecast reported by NASS in July.

The projected yield exceeded the previous high of 177.3 bushels per acre, which was attained in 2023. In comparison, the more recent average yields were 173.4 bushels per acre in 2022, 176.7 in 2021, 172 in 2020, 167.4 in 2019, and 176.4 in 2018.

According to Agricorp's report, the amount of corn harvested per acre in a specific state can differ significantly based on the location and the year. In 2023, Arkansas reported an average of 180 bushels of corn per acre, representing a rise of approximately seven bushels from the previous year. This also aligns with Arkansas' average over the past decade.

In Ontario, Canada, the average bushels of corn per acre reached 202 in 2023, exceeding the region's 10-year average of 180 bushels per acre.

Historical yield data

What is the historical average of corn harvested per acre? In the US, yields per acre have consistently increased since the late 1930s. Between 1866 and 1899, American farmers generally obtained an average of approximately 26 corn stalks per acre. A major turning point occurred in the 1930s with the introduction of hybrid corn, which marked the beginning of steady rises in yield.

Between 1987 and 2015, the national average increased from 135 bushels per acre to 188 bushels per acre. In the more recent period from 2016 to 2021, the average yield per acre of field corn was documented at 174. By 2023, this figure had risen to 177.3 bushels per acre.

What impacts corn yields per acre?

Corn yields are heavily influenced by a multitude of factors, among which soil quality is of paramount importance. Soils with ideal characteristics such as adequate structure, fertility, and drainage tend to foster better corn growth and ultimately lead to increased yields.

Weather conditions also have a crucial role in determining corn yields. The growing season requires sufficient rainfall and optimal temperatures, and deviations from these norms can affect production.

For example, extremely heavy rainfall can cause saturated soil, resulting in root decay and other diseases that impede plant development. Conversely, conditions of severe dryness can stress plants, leading to a decrease in ear formation and kernel production.

Farming practices significantly influence corn productivity. Effective fertilizer use is critical to replenishing soil nutrients depleted during the growing season. Techniques that combine multiple methods to control weeds and pests can help increase corn yield potential further.

Yield estimation methods

Farmers employ systematic field sampling to estimate corn yields with precision, facilitating effective farm planning and management. A commonly used approach involves counting the number of corn ears in a defined area, typically 1/1000th of an acre, to assess crop density.

Farmers select multiple ears from a sampled section for evaluation of individual plant productivity by counting the kernels on each one. By calculating the average of these counts, they can gain a clear understanding of the potential yield per plant. This method enables them to make accurate predictions about overall crop output.

What are projections for corn yields in the year 2025?

The January edition of Ag Decision Maker projected a 2% to 3% reduction in corn production costs, mainly attributed to decreased fertilizer and chemical expenses compared to 2025.

Furthermore, the price per bushel has decreased by 1% to 6%, driven by the inclusion of elevated yield expectations in the budgetary calculations. However, land costs are forecasted to remain stable, while expenditures associated with labour and machinery are anticipated to rise.

6. Monitor and manage soil moisture levels.

1. What is the projected corn yield per acre in the United States for 2024? As stated in the USDA's Crop Report, the anticipated national average corn yield for 2024 will be approximately 183.1 bushels per acre.
2. Several factors influence corn yields, including soil quality, weather conditions, and agricultural practices like fertilisation, pest control, and irrigation supply.
3. What is the highest recorded average crop yield per acre in the United States? The highest recorded average was 183.1 bushels per acre in 2024.
4. Why do corn yields differ across states? Corn yields fluctuate by state due to disparities in soil quality, weather patterns, and agricultural methods.
5. What can boost corn crop yield? Corn yield can be maximized through the wise use of fertilizers, integrated pest management, crop rotation, and precision farming techniques.
6. What is the standard approach to evaluating kernel weight in yield calculations? Kernel weight is typically estimated by using a predetermined average based on historical data or through sampling once the grain has matured.
7. Influencing factors on corn harvest productivity include crop rotation is an effective method by promoting soil quality, disrupting pest life cycles, and increasing nutrient accessibility.

Final word

Understanding how many bushels of corn are harvested per acre is crucial for effective corn farming planning. From notable highs such as 183.1 bushels per acre in 2024 to regional differences and past trends, the data demonstrates the advancements in corn production over the years.

Another article was published by Wander Thoughts.co.ke, reporting on the anticipated maize yields per acre in Kenya and which highlighted various factors that influence the harvest. Find out the expected yields in different areas and learn which practices can help you boost your crop yield.

Continued reading will also provide insight into how geographical differences and farming methods can affect your harvest's outcome and offer expert advice on achieving a more successful harvest.