Step 5: Assess the nominal Kernel Size

The Corn (Maize) Yield Estimation Calculator estimates the yield of corn on any size of land.  The calculator includes step by step instructions (below) and calculator buttons (on the right) and embedded calculators in the instruction text.  For an instructional video on how to use this calculator by Instructor Lantz, CLICK HERE.

Estimating Corn Yield and Crop Value 

1. Compute the 1,000^th of an acre row size for a sample
2. Count the Ears in sample row
3. Compute the average number of kernels of five ears from the sample row
4. Compute the Corn Moisture Correction factor
5. Assess the nominal Kernel Size
6. Compute the Corn Yield in your field
7. Compute the Market Value of Corn

Step Five - Kernel Size

You're almost done.  So far, you've calculated the following: 

1. Ear Count - This is the number of ears of corn in your 1/1000^th acre sample Row Section
2. KPE - This is the average number of kernels per ear in your sample
3. CMC - The corn moisture correction factor.

The last thing you need is the kernel size and acreage planted (A).  The size of your kernels will affect the yield estimation.   The number of kernels per bushel can range from 120,000 kernel per bushel for small kernels to only 80,000 kernels per bushel for large kernels.  Use the guide (picture) to estimate the size category of your kernels (Small, Medium, Large).  

Special Thanks to the Expert(s)

The above formulas and step by step process is based on information provided by Mr. Lantz (University of Maryland Extension Instructor) who provided the methods, tested the results and provided final review of this page.  Information was harvested (pun intended) from his own experience and resources.  For supporting information, consider the following:

• https://www.agry.purdue.edu/ext/corn/news/timeless/yldestmethod.html
• https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_images/programs/anmp/NM-4.pdf
• YouTube Instructions on Corn Yield: https://youtu.be/_d5-JvuQNYM

Corn Calculators:

• Corn Yield Estimation Calculator - Estimate the size of corn harvest (number of bushels) while the crop is still in the field based on a sample, acres planted and quality factors (kernel size and moisture).
• Crop Value Estimation - Estimate the value of a crop based on the acres planted, yield per acre and dollar per bushel.
• Corn Products - Estimates the amount of derivative products that can be produced based on a volume (number of bushels) of corn including: pounds of beef, pork and poultry, corn oil and ethanol.
• US Corn Pricing Survey - Regular survey of market prices of corn