Corn Survival and Nitrogen Needs

Corn Survival and Nitrogen Needs
Surface water ponding, flooding, and water seeping back in from levees have hurt crops along rivers and creeks. Those plants that have the growing point above the water had a much better chance of survival than when water covers the growing point.
Death readily occurs when plants are submerged for any length of time. Corn growing point can be checked to see if it is white or cream colored. A darkening or soft tissue indicates that death will occur soon. Those survival plants should be carefully watched.
Flooding can cause lose of nitrogen and poor weed control. Supplemental nitrogen may need to be applied in field areas where plants survive and adequate soil oxygen can be restored. Those areas of fields which will remain poorly drained may not recover and be careful with supplemental nitrogen.
Dr. Peter Scharf, University of Missouri State Soil Fertility Specialist, has put together a score-sheet to help growers determine if supplemental nitrogen is needed in corn fields across the state. A copy of this can be found on the web by at http://ppp.missouri.edu/newsletters/icpm or go to Extensions web site and use search engine to find this information.
Mud and sediment caking leaves can damage leaves and stalks and allow for the development of fungi and bacteria. This may cause stalk rots in the fall and diseases such as crazy top may affect corn plants.
Keep a close eye on area fields.
For more information contact Wayne Flanary, Regional Agronomist, University of Missouri Extension at 660-446-3724.