The drought conditions most likely have weakened corn stalks. Stands will need to be checked prior to harvest this year. Corn plants require water to receive most nutrients from the soil. In drought conditions, those nutrients cannot be pulled from the soil at high rates. Corn kernels need nutrients to develop properly. If the roots are unable to take in nutrients from the soil at adequate rates, then the corn plant will pull nutrients from the stalks to fill out the kernels. This cannibalization of the roots will leave them with poorer structural integrity. Corn plants are more likely to fall over with heavy winds or heavy rains. Ear drop from the stalks is more likely as well. • Lack of water usually weakens stalks. • Cornfield
To submit an update or takedown request for this paper, please submit an Update/Correction/Removal Request.
