By Blake Jackson
New performance data for corn grain and silage hybrids is now available to help farmers make informed decisions for the 2026 growing season. These comparisons provide a comprehensive yet non-exhaustive overview of hybrid performance to support growers before selecting the most suitable options for their fields.
The work is part of the long-standing corn agronomy program at the Department of Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The program marked its 53rd year of successful hybrid performance evaluation trials, demonstrating its commitment to providing reliable, science-based information for farmers.
Hybrid selection is one of the most important decisions for crop success because it directly influences yield potential. Choosing the right hybrid also supports pest resistance, resource efficiency, and improved profitability.
The goal of these trials is to offer unbiased comparisons of hybrid seed corn available across Wisconsin. The annual trials evaluate how different hybrids perform for both grain and silage, helping farmers understand yield potential, agronomic strengths, and consistency across environments. This information is especially valuable as new technologies and improved genetics continue to enter the market.
Growers can now access the 2025 Wisconsin Corn Performance Trial data in an easy-to-download Excel format. The tables offer clear summaries and performance measurements to support practical decision-making. These resources help farmers compare hybrids on equal terms and select options that best match field conditions and management goals.
A call for entries for the 2026 hybrid trials will be released in early February, inviting seed companies to submit new hybrids for evaluation. Farmers and industry partners are encouraged to stay updated as more details become available.
This work is supported through the Wisconsin Corn Growers, the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at UW–Madison, and the UW–Madison Division of Extension. For any questions or assistance, participants may contact the program representative directly.
Overall, the latest hybrid performance data provides valuable guidance for planning ahead, helping growers choose strong hybrids that support high yields, improved resilience, and long-term success.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kotenko-a
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Corn