Harvest Index Calculator
Calculate harvest index as the ratio of grain yield to total above-ground biomass.
Inputs
How It Works
Harvest Index = Grain Yield ÷ Total Biomass
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Harvest Index Calculator FAQ
What is harvest index?
Harvest index measures how efficiently a crop converts total biomass into harvested grain.
What is a typical harvest index for corn?
Modern corn hybrids often have a harvest index between 0.45 and 0.55 under optimal conditions.
Understanding Harvest Index in Crop Production
Harvest index is a key agronomic measurement that indicates the proportion of total plant biomass allocated to harvested grain. A higher harvest index means a greater percentage of the plant’s energy and nutrients were directed toward grain production rather than stems or leaves.
For example, if total above-ground biomass equals 20,000 pounds per acre and grain yield equals 10,000 pounds per acre, the harvest index is 0.50, or 50%. This means half of the plant's total dry matter was converted into harvestable grain.
Monitoring harvest index helps researchers and growers evaluate hybrid performance, stress tolerance, and nutrient efficiency. It is commonly used in corn, wheat, barley, and other cereal crops to assess productivity potential.