Garret Montgomery of the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture evaluates the effectiveness of a roller crimper as a cover crop termination tool before planting corn and soybeans.

North Dakota State University Extension warns that a heavy, cold rain after planting seems to increase the chances of imbibitional injury because it overwhelms the ability of the soil to warm the water before it reaches the seed.

Despite potential risks, many growers continue to plant corn at depths less than 1.5 inches, as the perception is that corn will emerge more rapidly due to warmer soil temperatures closer to the surface, says Ohio State University Extension.