By Scout Nelson
Corn enters one of its most important growth stages during midsummer as pollination begins and plants require enough moisture and nutrients to support grain production.
Weather conditions, including heat and uneven rainfall, can influence pollination success, nitrogen availability, and overall crop performance. Regular field scouting allows growers to identify problems early and make informed management decisions.
Anthony Hanson, Extension Educator Field Crops IPM, highlighted that careful crop monitoring during pollination helps growers evaluate plant health, identify stress symptoms, and make timely decisions that support strong yield potential throughout the growing season.
Corn development is progressing rapidly in many areas, with tasseling occurring earlier than normal. Adequate rainfall has reduced stress in many fields, although some regions continue to experience dry conditions.
Corn generally tolerates temperatures in the low 90s, but hotter weather during pollination can reduce pollen production and shorten the pollen-shedding period. Very high temperatures may also lower pollen viability, increasing the risk of poor kernel development.
Growers can evaluate pollination by checking silks several days after pollen shed. Silks that easily separate from developing kernels usually indicate successful pollination, while unusually long silks may suggest incomplete pollination.
The first two weeks after silking remain the most important period for determining final yield potential. Moisture stress during this stage can increase kernel abortion and reduce grain production.
Nitrogen management also remains important during midsummer. Fields that received adequate nitrogen earlier in the season often continue to meet crop needs through natural soil mineralization. Rescue nitrogen applications after tasseling are generally unnecessary unless excessive rainfall has caused significant nitrogen loss. Soil type, rainfall, and crop condition should all be considered before making additional fertilizer decisions.
Growers should also continue scouting for weeds and diseases. Waterhemp may survive because of herbicide resistance, delayed emergence, or application gaps. When additional control is needed, herbicides with different modes of action should be used while following all label requirements.
Disease pressure remains relatively low, although growers should continue monitoring for tar spot, northern corn leaf blight, and southern rust as weather conditions change. Regular scouting throughout pollination and grain fill allows producers to respond quickly if disease pressure increases.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-klosfoto
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn