Stine’s search for yield uncovers unexpected benefit

Decades of research produce shorter yet sturdier plants for higher populations.

Thirty years of selecting corn genetics for yield, standability and the ability to perform at high populations have produced a noticeable result for Stine Seed Company - generally shorter corn than its competitors, with ears high enough for normal harvest.

The central Iowa company's researchers didn't necessarily set out to develop reduced stature corn.

But what began almost accidentally became a breeding advantage, giving farmers...