Dry weather conditions during the early stages of corn growth can have significant consequences for crop development. As observed in Knox County, experts from The Ohio State University Extension provide valuable insights into the effects of drought on corn and offer practical recommendations for managing these challenges.
- Leaf Rolling:
During periods of intense heat and limited water availability, corn plants respond by rolling their leaves. This natural mechanism helps conserve water but reduces photosynthesis and biomass production, potentially impacting overall yield.
- Potassium Deficiency:
Drought stress can lead to potassium deficiency in young corn plants. As water scarcity hampers nutrient uptake, plant tissue samples may show signs of deficiency. It's important to note that applying additional potassium without sufficient water will not address the issue.
- Nutrient Deficiencies:
Water is vital for corn to absorb various nutrients, not just potassium. Dry conditions can restrict nutrient uptake, leading to deficiencies. Tissue testing can identify specific nutrient imbalances. Receiving a soaking rain is the most effective remedy for addressing transient deficiencies.
- Compaction Concerns:
Dry soils can exacerbate compaction issues, including seed furrow sidewall compaction and subsurface tillage compaction. Compacted areas restrict root growth, hinder nutrient absorption, and stunt corn plants. Timely rains are crucial for alleviating compaction, though their absence in the current forecast poses challenges.
- "Floppy" Corn Syndrome:
Dry weather combined with high temperatures can cause root desiccation, resulting in corn plants collapsing and lodging. This condition is more likely to affect early-stage corn plants, especially those with shallow placement. To prevent lodging, it is essential to promote new root growth through timely soaking rains.
- Loss of Row and Kernel Number:
Insufficient water during critical growth stages, particularly V7 to V12, can reduce overall stem and leaf biomass, leading to a decrease in row number and kernel number on the ears.
- Reduced Disease Risk:
Dry conditions create an unfavorable environment for foliar diseases, resulting in significantly reduced disease pressure. Application of fungicides during drought is unnecessary.
- Limited Residual Herbicide Activity:
Many soil residual herbicides require rainfall for activation. Dry weather conditions hinder the effectiveness of these herbicides. Scouting fields for weed escapes and planning herbicide application after rainfall events is crucial. Weeds are less likely to thrive in dry conditions and require moisture to be receptive to herbicides.
- Root Development Challenges:
Dry soils affect root development as water movement occurs predominantly from the surface downward. Corn plants at the V2 to V3 growth stages are particularly vulnerable to root loss due to limited water availability at deeper soil depths.
- Nitrogen Management:
Dry weather increases the risk of nitrogen loss through volatilization. Appropriate timing and formulation of nitrogen fertilizers are crucial to minimize these losses. Liquid forms of nitrogen, such as liquid urea ammonium nitrate (UAN), offer advantages in reducing volatilization compared to dry urea.
While dry weather conditions during early corn growth stages present challenges, proper understanding and proactive management can help mitigate potential yield losses. Monitoring crop development, following expert recommendations, and hoping for timely rainfall will aid in maintaining corn productivity.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-chrisboswell
Categories: Ohio, Weather