Results for the 2024 UCCE Delta field corn variety trial are now available. The trial took place on Tyler Island in Sacramento County. The trial was planted on April 26 and included nine varieties submitted by seed companies and two by the cooperating grower. We evaluate varieties across three replicate blocks for performance under Delta conditions, including high organic matter soils and pest pressures typical for the region. The trial was harvested on October 14.

A couple things stood out in 2024. There were periods of exceptionally hot weather during the season, including during bloom. Corn has photosynthetic adaptations that impart heat tolerance, but research has shown that the photosynthetic capacity of corn can be impeded when high leaf temperatures inactivate photosynthetic enzymes. High mid-season temperatures may have impacted yield for some varieties, but overall performance appears comparable to previous years. Also, Fusarium ear rot incidence was relatively high this year, and members of the industry have confirmed this for other regions of the state. Head smut incidence was low this year, and common smut is not widely observed at this site.

Six varieties yielded similarly well, based on statistical analysis, and varieties that yielded lower in the trial had a higher incidence of Fusarium ear rot. In addition to yield, there were also statistical differences in stand count, days to bloom, ear height, grain moisture, and bushel  weight. A table of results, as well as more information about the experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis are available from the full report.