We used the crop simulation model AquaCrop to evaluate optimum limited irrigation strategies on corn in western Kansas. To obtain optimum yields, corn needed on average approximately 18, 12, and 6 inches of irrigation for dry, normal, and wet growing seasons, respectively, assuming initial soil water at planting as 70% of field capacity.
There were differences in corn yield among evaluated planting dates. Late planting produced the lowest yield. Assuming a limited irrigation capacity of 2.6 gpm/acre, planting 50% of 115 acres (assumed total irrigated area under pivot on a quarter section) produced the highest yield and crop water productivity on both sandy clay loam and silt loam soils compared to planting 100% of the area.
Publication: Araya, A., I. Kisekka, P.V. Vara Prasad, and P. Gowda. (2017). Evaluating Optimum Limited Irrigation Management Strategies for Corn using Crop Simulation Models. J. Irrig. Drain Eng.