A simple device for measuring emergence force of seedlings was developed. In this, the emerging seedling was directed to a groove in the gypsum block adhering to the lower side of a cantilever beam. The growing seedling pushed the beam upwards and produced flexure stress in it. Emergence force was computed from the strain measured by gauges cemented on the beam.Effect of seed size, depth of planting, seed orientation and bulk density of the soil below the seed on the emergence force/pressure of corn was studied with this device. Emergence force increased significantly with increasing bulk density of soil below the seed. Differences due to seed orientation were more pronounced in emergence pressure than in the emergence force. Seed size and depth of planting had no effect on emergence force. In a field experiment, compaction below the seed and D (proximal end down) orientation of planting produced faster and greater emergence.