Historical changes and yield in the Ohio corn performance test: A 50-year summary

Reaching production potential, crop quality, and profitability are pivotal goals across cropping systems. The Ohio corn performance test (OCPT) has deployed research approaches in the last 50 years. Partnerships between Ohio State University, seed companies, and cooperating farmers have tested commercially available corn (Zea mays L.) hybrids across several locations in the state. This work aims to identify historical changes in agronomic characteristics, environmental factors, crop management, and their association with crop productivity and gross income over 50 years. Yield improvements were observed, from 9.34 (1972–1981) to 14.78 (2012–2021) Mg ha⁻¹. Adopting management practices such as crop rotation and soil conservation practices (e.g., minimum till, no-till, and stale seedbed) accompanied production improvements. Our results showed that seeding rate, seedling emergence, and final stands had strong correlations with yield (81%, 64%, and 82%). Regions with better weather conditions (i.e., more precipitation, higher average temperatures, lower wind speed) also had strong correlations with yield; the central region had the highest average yield. In this 50-year dataset, OCPT yields represented gross income values 40% higher compared to the average for the state of Ohio during the same period. This study indicates that yield improvements in the corn performance test have been achieved through synergistic changes in new hybrids, key management practices, and coupled with suitable growing environments. Our work reaffirms that selecting hybrids that are best adapted to specific growing environments is a primary factor in achieving high yields and profits at the farm level.