Crop Yield Estimator
Estimate crop production per acre and compare against national USDA yield benchmarks
Crop Yield Estimator
Predict harvest yields based on field area, growing conditions, and management practices
Yield Prediction Parameters
Wheat (Winter)
Cereals - Base: 6 t/haEnter the total cropped area
Production Factors:
Additional Stress Factors:
Yield Prediction Results
6 t/ha
Predicted Yield
600 tonnes
Total Production
Base Yield Potential:
6 t/ha
Yield Achievement:
54% of potential
Top Limiting Factors:
Critical Success Factors:
- Temperature during grain fill
- Water availability at heading
- Soil nitrogen
US Average & High Yield Benchmarks by Crop
| Crop | US Average Yield | High Yield Potential | Measurement Unit | Test Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corn (grain) | 177 bu/acre | 250300 bu/acre | Bushels | 56 lbs/bu |
| Soybeans | 51 bu/acre | 80100 bu/acre | Bushels | 60 lbs/bu |
| Winter Wheat | 49 bu/acre | 80120 bu/acre | Bushels | 60 lbs/bu |
| Cotton (upland) | 893 lbs/acre | 1,5002,000 lbs/acre | Lbs lint | Lint only |
| Grain Sorghum | 72 bu/acre | 100150 bu/acre | Bushels | 56 lbs/bu |
| Sunflower | 1,500 lbs/acre | 2,5003,500 lbs/acre | Lbs seed | Varies |
| Alfalfa (hay) | 3.5 tons/acre | 68 tons/acre | Tons DM | Per cutting 4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I estimate corn yield before harvest?
The ear count method: count ears in 1/1000 acre (17.4 ft of 30" rows). Count kernels per ear (rows kernels per row). Apply formula: (Ears/1000 acre Kernels/ear) / 90,000 = bu/acre. Use 85,00095,000 as kernel weight factor (higher in stress years, lower in favorable years). This method is accurate within 1020% at R4 (dough) stage or later.
What is test weight and why does it affect yield value?
Test weight measures grain density (lbs per bushel volume). Standard test weights: corn 56 lbs/bu, wheat 60 lbs/bu, soybeans 60 lbs/bu. Low test weight grain is discounted at elevators because buyers pay by bushel (volume) but get less weight and energy value. Causes of low test weight: early frost, disease, drought stress during grain fill. Grain is "light" more volume/bushel = fewer pounds per acre.
How much does 1 inch of rainfall affect corn yield?
Research shows corn yields decline approximately 24 bu/acre for each inch of rainfall deficit during the critical pollination period (VT-R2 stage, roughly July in the Corn Belt). A 2-inch deficit during this window can cost 48 bu/acre. Conversely, excess rainfall (>4 inches in a week) can cause nitrogen leaching and soil compaction that reduces yield. The sweet spot for corn is steady, moderate rainfall of 11.5 inches per week during grain fill.
What factors have the biggest impact on crop yield?
In order of typical impact: (1) Genetics/hybrid/variety selection (accounts for 2030% of yield potential); (2) Soil fertility and pH management; (3) Water availability and drought stress timing; (4) Planting date and population; (5) Pest/disease/weed pressure; (6) Soil organic matter and structure; (7) Temperature during critical growth periods. Soil testing and following agronomic recommendations for your specific fields is the highest ROI management practice.