If you’re playing Farming Simulator 22 and wondering when you can plant corn, you’ve come to the right place. Knowing the optimal planting season is key to a sucessful harvest. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from soil temperature to the best months for planting in the game’s different maps.
Getting your corn planting right affects your yield, your profits, and your overall farm efficiency. Let’s break down the simple rules FS22 uses so you can plan your farming year with confidence.
When Can You Plant Corn in FS22
In FS22, corn follows a specific seasonal cycle. You cannot plant it year-round. The game simulates real-world growing conditions, so you must pay attention to the calendar and the weather.
The primary planting window for corn is in the spring. On the standard three-month season calendar, this means the months of March, April, and May. If you are playing with one-month seasons, your planting month is typically April. Missing this window means waiting until next year.
Understanding Ground Temperature
Beyond the calendar, the game uses a ground temperature mechanic. Corn requires the soil to be at least 10°C (50°F) to plant. Even if it’s within the correct month, if an early cold snap hits, you might have to wait a few more in-game days.
- Check the soil temperature in the map menu.
- Wait for a consistent period above 10°C for best results.
- Planting in to cold soil can lead to slower germination.
Map-Specific Considerations
While the core rule is the same, different maps can have slight variations in climate.
Elmcreek (US Midwest)
This is the standard map. Follow the spring planting rule strictly. The weather here is very predictable for corn.
Haut-Beyleron (French)
The climate is similar, but you might find the ground warms up a tiny bit earlier sometimes. Still, sticking to the core spring window is your safest bet.
Erlengrat (Alpine)
This map can be trickier. The mountainous terrain can lead to cooler temperatures. You may need to wait until late April or even early May for the soil to reach the right temperature consistently.
The Step-by-Step Planting Process
Once the season and temperature are right, here’s how to get your corn in the ground.
- Prepare Your Field: Start by cultivating or using a direct drill. Corn cannot be planted into untilled soil unless your seeder specifically states it can.
- Choose the Right Seeder: Use a planter, not a standard seeder. Corn requires specific planters like the Horsch Pronto or the John Deere 1725. Check the shop description to be sure.
- Fill with Seed: Purchase corn seed from the shop and fill your planter’s tank. Don’t forget to lower the implement before you start driving!
- Begin Planting: Drive over your field. Watch your map for missed spots to ensure complete coverage.
- Consider Fertilization: For the best yield, you can fertilize at the same time if your planter has that function, or come back later to apply fertilizer.
Optimal Growth Cycle and Harvest
After planting, corn takes time to grow. It has three distinct growth stages visible on the map.
- Stage 1 (Planting): The field shows small, straight rows.
- Stage 2 (Growing): The plants become taller and greener.
- Stage 3 (Ready): The field turns a golden brown. This indicates it is ready for harvest.
Corn harvest occurs in the autumn. On a three-month season, this is typically September, October, and November. For one-month seasons, target October. You will need a forage harvester with a corn header or a specific combine harvester header designed for corn.
Pro Tips for Maximum Yield
To get the most out of your corn fields, a few extra steps make a big difference.
Always Use Fertilizer
Applying fertilizer at the correct growth stages (there is two) boosts your yield significantly. Use a fertilizer spreader, sprayer, or a weeder in the first growth stage.
Weed Control is Crucial
If weeds appear, you must remove them. Letting weeds grow will reduce your final harvest amount. Use a weeder or a sprayer with herbicide.
Plowing Periodicly
After several harvests, the game may indicate a field needs plowing. Plowing when required prevents a yield penalty on your next crop, including corn.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced farmers can make these errors. Here’s what to watch out for.
- Trying to plant in summer. The game simply will not let you plant corn outside its spring window.
- Ignoring soil temperature. If you can’t plant, check the map menu—it’s likely still too cold.
- Using the wrong machine. A regular seeder will not work for corn.
- Forgetting to buy corn seed specifically. It is a separate product from other seeds like wheat or barley.
- Missing the harvest window. If winter arrives, your corn will be destroyed and you’ll lose the crop.
FAQ: Your Corn Planting Questions Answered
Can I plant corn in fall in FS22?
No, corn is strictly a spring-planted crop in the game. The planting season is locked to spring months.
What happens if I plant corn to late?
If you plant at the very end of May, it might still grow, but you risk the crop not reaching harvest maturity before winter. It’s best to plant as early in the window as conditions allow.
Do I need to water my corn?
No, FS22 does not have an irrigation mechanic for field crops like corn. Growth is based on time and season.
Can I use a mod to plant corn anytime?
Yes, there are mods available that can remove seasonal growth restrictions. Check trusted mod sites for “season” or “growth” mods if you want more flexibility.
What’s the difference between corn and corn for silage?
It’s the same crop. You decide its use at harvest. Using a forage harvester makes it silage. Using a combine harvester with a corn header yields plain corn grain.
By following this guide, you’ll master the timing and techniques for planting corn in FS22. Paying attention to the season, the temperature, and your equipment choices will ensure you get a bumper crop every time. Now get out there and get planting while the spring sun is shining!