Average Cost Per Acre To Grow Corn In Illinois
Illinois is one of the top corn-producing states in the United States, with over 11 million acres of corn planted each year. The cost of growing corn in Illinois varies based on a number of factors, including land prices, seed prices, fertilizer expenses, and machinery costs. In this article, we will delve into the average cost per acre to grow corn in Illinois and explore the various factors that contribute to this cost.
Land Prices
One of the biggest expenses when growing corn is the cost of land. In Illinois, the average price of farm real estate was $7,400 per acre in 2020, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, land prices can vary greatly depending on location, with prime farmland in some areas costing over $10,000 per acre. In addition to the cost of purchasing land, farmers also need to consider property taxes and other related expenses when calculating the cost of growing corn.
Seed Prices
The cost of corn seed is another important factor to consider when calculating the cost per acre to grow corn in Illinois. Seed prices can vary widely depending on the type of seed and the supplier. According to the USDA, the average cost of seed corn in Illinois was $275 per 80,000 kernels in 2020. In addition to the cost of seed, farmers also need to factor in the cost of herbicides and other chemicals used to protect the crop.
Fertilizer Expenses
The cost of fertilizer is another important expense when growing corn in Illinois. The type and amount of fertilizer needed will depend on a variety of factors, such as soil type and crop rotation. According to the USDA, the average cost of fertilizer per acre in Illinois was $113 in 2020. Farmers can also reduce fertilizer costs by using sustainable farming practices, such as cover crops and crop rotation.
Machinery Costs
The cost of machinery is another important factor to consider when calculating the cost per acre to grow corn in Illinois. Farmers need a variety of machinery, such as tractors, planters, and combines, to plant and harvest their crops. According to the USDA, the average cost of machinery per acre in Illinois was $82 in 2020. However, farmers can reduce machinery costs by purchasing used equipment or sharing equipment with other farmers in their area.
Conclusion
Overall, the average cost per acre to grow corn in Illinois is around $657, according to the USDA. However, this cost can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, such as land prices, seed prices, fertilizer expenses, and machinery costs. By carefully considering these factors and implementing cost-saving measures, such as sustainable farming practices and machinery sharing, farmers in Illinois can reduce their expenses and increase their profitability.