With the hot, dry conditions of the summer, much of the corn in the area has had a tough growing season. This time of year, it would be wise for growers to scout their fields to check for corn maturity, stalk strength and set yield expectations.

Growers should check 5 or 6 areas of each field and conduct the “push” test on several stalks of corn. With the lack of moisture, the plant was forced to pull nutrients from the pith of the stalk, leaving the corn plant in a weakened condition. In addition, the european corn borer (ECB) population was heavy this year. With the tunnelling of the borer into the stalks along with the possible introduction of stalk rots due to ECB feeding, the corn plant has faced many stresses.

By conducting this simple test, growers are better able to plan the harvest season and minimize yield loss due to ear drop and stalk breakage.

Carolyn Vsetula Crop Specialist

Orford Co-operative Ltd.