"SI T£ LIBRARY OF IOWA

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Contents ·· ·
1 How a Corn Plant Develops
2 The Illustrations
3 Identifying Stages of
Development
4 Vegetative Stages and
Developmen t
13 Reproductive Stages and Kernel
Development
19 Conclusions
• How a Corn Pl ant Grows
• Nutrient Uptake
• Ferti lizer Applications
Summary

Prepared by Steven W. Ritchie, former

agronomy research ass istant; John J.
Hanway, professor of agronomy, re-
tired ; and Garren 0. Ben son ,
exten sion agronomist.

J. Clayton Herman, editor; photography,

ISU Photo Service; technical assistance
from Steven J. Lupkes, agronomy
research associate.
How a Corn Plant Develops
There's more than meets the eye in a Combinations of these practices vary
field of growing corn. One way to look over different production situations
behind the scene is to consider the and management levels.
cornfield as a complex and constantly
changing community. Regardless of the specific situation ,
however, a producer needs to
It is a manufacturing community with understand corn growth and
many thousands of highly organized development. A producer who
and highly efficient "factories" per understands the corn plant can use
hectare or acre. Basically, the raw production practices more efficiently
materials for the factories (plants) are to obtain higher yields and profit.
water and mineral nutrients from the
soil and carbon dioxide and oxygen This publication is designed to aid
from the atry1osphere. those involved in corn production to
more fully understand how the corn
The internal machinery that transforms plant develops. The content is both
these raw materials into useful basic and applied . The basic
products (yield) is powered by information explains corn growth and
sunlight. The products, called dry development through one life cyclr;J .
matter, consist of different Management guides pinpoint"
combinations of carbohydrates , practices needed for optimum plant
proteins, oils, and the mineral growth ,and production .
Fig. 2. Lower stalk split lengthwise.
nutrients. Differences in growth and
yield between hybrids are a result of
differences in factory internal
machinery.

The overall concept of corn

production is that the raw materials
and sunlight (power), combine with
the internal machinery of the hybrid
being grown to yield dry matter. This
means that growth and yield of a corn
plant are functions of the plant 's
genetic potential to react to the
environmental conditions under which
the plant is grown .

Although nature provides the major

portion of the environmental influence
on corn growth and yield , a corn
producer can manipulate the
environment with proven managerial
practices. Such operations include
tillage and fertilization of the soil ,
irrigation, weed and insect control ,
and many other practices .

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1 2
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Fig _ ._ seed- lg.i n- - 1--

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The Illustrations
The illustrations and discussion in Familiarity with the names and illustrations of a corn seedling, lower
this publication represent an locations of some corn plant parts is stalk, corn ear, and corn kernel are
adapted midseason hybrid in central helpful in understanding how the plant introduced first as a reference. figs .
Iowa. Each plant develops 20-21 develops Thus, the labeled 1-4.
total leaves , silks about 65 days after
emergence , and matures about 125
days after emergence. Plants and
plant parts are displayed at
identifiable stages of morphological
(form and structure) development. All
plants except figs . 5 and 6
(which were greenhouse grown),
were field grown and photographed
in the laboratory.

All normal corn plants follow this same

general pattern of development, but
the specific time interval between
stages and total leaf numbers
developed may vary between different
hybrids, seasons, dates of planting ,
and locations . For example:

1. An early maturing hybrid may

develop fewer leaves or progress
through different stages at a faster
rate than indicated here . A late-
maturing hybrid may develop more
leaves or progress more slowly than
indicated here.

2. The rate of plant development for

any hybrid is directly related to
temperature, so the length of time
between the different stages will vary
as the temperature varies, both Fig . 3. Corn ear between R1 and R2 stages Fig. 4. Corn kernel sliced lengthwise.
between and within growing seasons. sliced lengthwise.
1. Ear leaf 1. Silk scar
3. Environmental stress such as 2. Si lks 2. Seed coat
nutrient or moisture deficiencies may 3. Kernels 3. Endosperm
lengthen the time between vegetative 4. Cob 4. Embryo
stages but shorten the time between 5. Husks 4a. coleoptile
reproductive stages. 6. Shank 4b. plumule
7. Stem 4c . scutellum
4. The number of kernels that 8. Ear node 4d . radicle .
develop , final kernel size, rate of 9. Leaf colla r 5. Black abscission zone
increase in kernel weight, and length 6. Pedicel
of the reproductive growth period will
vary between different hybrids and
environmental conditions .

2
Identifying Stages of Development
The staging system employed here between the leaf blade and leaf Table 1. Vegetative and
divides plant development into sheath , figs . 1 and 3. The reproductive stages of a corn
vegetative (V) and reproductive (R) characteristically oval-shaped first plant.*
stages (tab le 1). Subdivisions of the leaf is a reference point for counting
V stages are designated numerically upward to the top visible leaf collar. Vegetative Stages Reproductive Stages
as V1 , V2 , V3 , etc. through V(n),
where (n) represents the last leaf Beginning at about V6, however, VE emergence R1 silking
stage before VT for the specific increasing stalk and nodal root growth V1 first leaf R2 blister
hybrid under consideration . The first combine to tear the small lowest V2 second leaf R3 milk
and last V stages are designated as leaves from the plant. Degeneration V3 third leaf R4 dough
VE (emergence) and VT (tasseling). and eventual loss of the leaves R5 dent
The (n) wil l fluctuate with hybrid and results . To determine the leaf stag e R6 physiological
environmental differences . The six after lower leaf loss, split the lower maturity
subdivision~ of the reproductive stalk lengthwise (see fig . 2) and V(n) nth leaf
stages are designated numerically inspect for internode elongation . The VT tasseling
with thei r common names in table 1. first node above the first elongated
stalk internode generally is the fifth 'This system accurately identifies the stages of
Each leaf stage is defined according leaf node. This internode usually is a corn plant. However. all plants in a given field
will not be in the same stage at the same time
to the uppermost leaf whose leaf about one centimeter (0.4 inch) in When staging a field of corn . each specific V or
colla r is visible. The first part of the length . This fifth leaf node may be R stage is defined only when 50 percent or
collar that is vis ible is the back used as a replacement reference more of the plants in the field are in or beyond
that stage.
which appears as a discolored line point for counting to the top leaf collar.

Fig. 5. Germi nation and emergence 0 , 2, 4, 5, 6, 7(VE), 8, 10(V1), and 12(V2) days after planti ng .

3
Vegetative Stages and Development
Germination and Emergence The soil depth of the growing point at progressively higher node on the
(VE) VE also marks the depth at which stalk, up to 7 to 10 nodes total . The
Under adequate field conditions. the initial nodal root growth will begin . nodal root system becomes the major
planted seed absorbs water and This depth (2 .5-3.8 em) is relatively supplier of water and nutrients to the
begins growth . The radicle is first to constant over different planting depths plant by the V6 stage.
begin elongation, fig . 5, from the due to mesocotyl elongation , see
swollen kernel , followed by the fig . 6. All roots except the radicle , initially
coleoptile with the enclosed plumule tend to grow at an angle of 25 to 30
(embryonic plant) , and then the three The nodal root system is initiated at degrees from horizontal. Initial radicle
to four lateral seminal roots . VE about VE, and the first set (whorl) of root growth , however, can be aimed
(emergence) is finally attained by nodal roots begins elongation from the in any direction (except up) by
rapid mesocotyl elongation which first node during V1 . From V1 to about orienting the seed . Nodal root growth
pushes the growing coleoptile to the R3 (after which there is very limited begins to turn more downward as
soil surface, white line in fig. 5. Under root growth) , a set of nodal roots temperatures increase and drying
warm , moist conditions, plant begins development at each occurs in the upper soil layers.
emergence will occur within 4 to 5
days after planting , but under cool or
dry conditions. 2 weeks or longer may
be required .

Upon emergence and exposure of the

coleoptile tip to sunlight. coleoptile
and mesocotyl elongation stops. At
this time, the growing point (stem
apex) of the plant is 2.5-3.8 em (1-1 112
inches) below the soil surface and is
located just above the mesocotyl . The
rapidly developing embryonic leaves
then grow through the coleoptilar tip
and development of the above-ground
plant follows .

Because the radicle and lateral

seminal roots (collectively termed the
seminal root system) begin growth
directly from the seed , the soil depth
at which they initially develop
depends upon seed planting depth .
Growth of these roots , however, slows
soon after VE and is virtually Fig. 6. Mesocotyl elongation at different planting depths.
non-existent by the V3 stage.
Although the seminal root system
continues to function throughout most
of the corn plant's life . its most
important contribution occurs before
the nodal roots become well
established .

4
Management Guides seminal root system has virtually
Since longer season hybrids generally ceased .
average higher yields than shorter
season hybrids, choose a regionally All leaves and ear shoots that the
adapted hybrid that will utilize your plant will eventually produce are
local growing season and particular being initiated (formed) now. At about
needs . Also use planting densities V5, leaf and ear shoot initiation will be
(row width and plant population) high complete and a microscopically small
enough to efficiently utilize your land tassel is initiated in the stem apex tip.
area and hybrid 's potential , but not The stem apex at tassel initiation is
too high as to result in barren or just under or at the soil surface,
unfilled ears. although total above-ground plant
height is about 20 em (8 inches) .
Cool [Link] at planting
generally restrict nutrient absorption Management Guides
from soil and cause slow growth. This The below-ground growing point
can be partially eliminated by banding during the very early leaf stages is
small amounts of fertilizer to the side especially affected by soil
and slightly below the seed . This temperatures. Cold soil temperatures
banded fertilizer may be contacted by may increase the time between leaf
the seminal root system before VE. stages, increase the total number of
leaves {ormed , delay tassel formation , Fig. 8. Dissected V3 plant.
For faster germination and emergence and reduce nutrient availability.
at early planting dates, shallow
planting takes advantage of the more
favorable soil temperatures near the
soil surface. At late planting dates, soil
temperatures are generally adequate
throughout all planting depths and soil
moisture content becomes the limiting
factor for rapid growth . The deeper
planting depths usually have better
moisture content at late plantings
unless recent rains have occurred .

V3 Stage
The dissected V3 plant, fig . 8, is
shown with the leaves laid alternately
(from side to side) in succession as
they naturally appear on the intact
corn plant. This same manner of
display was used for all subsequent V
stages presented . Notice from the
dissected V3 plant the stem apex
(growing point) is still below the soil
surface, and that very little stalk (stem)
elongation has occurred .

Root hairs are growing from the nodal

roots by this time, and growth of the Fig . 7. V3 plant.

5
Destructive hail , wind or frost which Management Guides about V8 if the fertilizer is placed in
damages the exposed leaves at V3 Precise fertilizer placement is less moist soil and if excess root pruning is
will have little or no effect on the critical now because the nodal root avoided .
below-ground growing point or final system is well distributed in the soil.
seed yield . However, watch for signs of macro Watch also for signs of insect damage
and micro nutrient deficiencies on the such as lodged plants caused by
Flooding at any time when the plant and treat accordingly. Although rootworms or leaf feeding by corn
growing point is below the water level soil nutrient deficiencies may be borers.
can kill the corn plant in a few days, cu rbed by foli ar (leaf) or soi l
especially if temperature s are high . application , preventing th e deficiency
before the symptoms appear is
Weed control reduces competition by usually more desirable. Side-dressing
weeds for light, water and nutrients. of nitrogen may be performed up to
The use of chemicals, mechanical
cu ltivation , and management
practices such as higher plant
densities or crop rotations, or
combinations of these are effective
weed control practi ces. Cultivation too
deep or too near the plant after V2 will
destroy some of the nodal root
system; so cultivate cautiously.

V6 Stage
At V6, figs . 9 and 10, the growing
point and tassel are above the soil
surface and the stalk is beginning a
period of greatly increased elongation .
Fig. 9. V6 plant. Fig. 11 . Magnified tassel of V7 plant.
Below ground, the nodal root system
is now the major functionin g root
system with sets of roots elongating
from the three to fou r lowest stalk
nodes.

Some ear shoots or tillers, which

initially look very similar, are visible at
this time. They are displayed in the
dissected plant (fig. 10) just above the
leaf that grew from the same node .
Tillers (also termed suckers) will
generally form at nodes originating
below the soil surface, but may never
show advanced development as in
fig .14. The degree of tiller
development will vary with hybrid
choice, plant density, fertility , and
other environmental conditions.

Degeneration and loss of the two

lowest leaves may have already
occurred by the V8 stage . Fig. 10. Dissected V6 plant.

6
V9 Stage
Many ear shoots are now easily
visible upon dissection of a V9 plant,
fig . 13. An ear shoot (potential ear) will
develop from every above-ground
node, except the last six to eight
nodes below the tassel. Initially, each
ear shoot develops faster than the ear
shoots originating above it on the
stalk. However, growth of most lower
stalk ear shoots eventually slows, and
only the upper one or two ear shoots
ever develop into a harvestable ear.
Hybrids that .produce more than one
harvestable ear on the main stem are
Fig . 14. Tillers of V9 plant.
termed prolific. The tendency for a
plant to display prolificness increases
with low plant densities.

The tassel begins to develop rapidly

now and the stalk is continuing rapid Fig. 12. V9 plant.
elongation. Stalk elongation actually
occurs through elongation of its
internodes. Each internode will begin
elongation before the internode on the
stalk above it, similar to initial ear
shoot development.

By V1 0, the time between the

appearance of new leaf stages will
shorten, generally occurring every two
to three days .

Management Guides
At about V1 0, the corn plant begins a
rapid , steady increase in nutrient and
dry weight accumulation which will
continue until far into the reproductive
stages (see figs. 53 and 54) . Soil
nutrients and water supplies are now
in greater demand to meet the needs
of this increased growth rate .

Fig. 13. Dissected V9 plant.

7
V12 Stage harvested. The potential for these two
Although the ear shoots (potential harvest factors is also related to the

. -~ ~~ ·--
.
ears) were formed just before tassel length of time available for their

~,!,z- ~
formation (V5) , the number of ovules determination, usually from about V1 0 I
(potential kernels) on each ear and through V17. Earli er maturing hybrids
the size of the ear are now being will generally progress through these ~ • I

~'.
I •

determined at the V12 stage, figs . stages in a shorter time , and usually
15-19. have smaller ears than later maturing
hyb ri ds. Thu s, higher plant densities
. ' -.
\
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,/
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Th e number of rows of kernels per ear are needed for early maturing hybrids >n
(fig . 18) has already been established , to produce com parable seed yields.
but the determination of the number of Fig. 17. Dissected V12 plant.
kernels per row will not be complete
until about one week from silking or
about V17 .

The top ear shoot (fig . 19) is still

smal ler than the lower ear shoots at
this time; however, many of th e upper
ears are close to th e same size .

Management Guides
Because ovule number and ear size
are now being determined, moisture
or nutrient deficiencies at this time
may seriously reduce the potential
number of seeds and size of ears

Fig. 19. Ear shoots of V12 plant from top (left) to bottom.

Fig. 15. V1 2 plant. Fig. 16. Side view of V12 plant. Fig. 18. Top ear (magnified) of V12 plant.

8
V15 Stage Management Guides nutrient deficiencies, high
The V15 corn plant in figs . 20 and 21 Larger seed yield reduction will result temperatures or hail . This four-week
is approximately 10-12 days (six V from water stress occurring between period around silking is the most
stages) away from the R1 (silking) about two weeks before to two weeks important time for irrigation .
stage. This stage is the beginning of after silking than similar stress at any
the most crucial period of plant other period of growth . The largest
development in terms of seed yield yield reduction will result from stress
determination. at silking (early R1 stage) with smaller
reductions resulting the further away
Upper ear shoot development by V15 from silking that the stress occurs.
has surpassed that of the lower ear This is generally true with other types
shoots, fig . 22, and a new leaf stage of environmental stress such as
is now occurring every 1-2 days. Silks
are just beginning to grow from the
upper ears at this time, fig . 23.

By V17 the upper ear shoots may

have grown enough that their tips are
visible (without dissection) at the
top of the leaf sheaths that surround
them. The tip of the tassel may also
be visible at V17 .

Fig . 23. Top ear shoot (above) and ear (below) Fig. 21 . Dissected V1 5 plant.
of V15 plant.

Fig. 20. V1 5 plant. Fig. 22. Ear shoots of V1 5 plant from bottom (left) to top.

9
 V18 Stage
Details of the upper ear shoot and ear
development are outlined in figs . 26
and 27 . Notice that silks from the
basal ear ovules are first and silks
from the ear tip ovules are last to
elongate. The illustrations represent
about eight to nine days of
reproductive organ development.

Brace roots (also termed aerial nodal

Fig. 26. Upper ear shoot development V18 (left)
roots, fig . 31) are now growing from through R1 .
the nodes above the soil surface .
They help support the plant and
scavenge the upper soil layers for
water and nutrients during the
reproductive stages .

Management Guides
The corn plant is now about one week
away from silking , and ear
development is continuing rapidly .

Stress during this time delays ear and

ovule development more than tassel
development. Delayed ear
development will cause a lag between Fig. 27. Upper ear and silk development V18
beginning pollen shed and beginning (left) through R 1.
silk. If the stress is severe enough , it
may delay silking until after pollen Fig. 24. V18 plant
shed is partially or mostly through .
The ovules that silk after pollen shed
is finished will not be fertilized and will
not contribute to yield .

Non-prolific (strongly single-eared)

hybrids will gradually produce lower
yields with increasing stress exposure,
but may tend to yield higher than
prolific hybrids under non-stress
conditions . Prolific hybrids produce
fairly stable yields under variable
stress conditions (except under
severe stress) because ear
development is less inhibited by
stress.

Fig. 25. Dissected V 18 plant

10
VT Stage
The VT stage (figs. 28 and 29) is
initiated when the last branch of the
tassel is completely visible and the
silks have not yet emerged (a~e not
visible) . VT begins approximately 2-3
days before silk emergence, during
which time the corn plant will almost
attain its ful l height and pollen shed
begins . The time between VT and R1
can fluctuate considerably depending
on the hybrid and environmental
conditions. Under field conditions,
pollen shed (also termed pollen drop)
usually occurs in the late mornings
and earli evenings.

Management Guides
The corn plant from VT to R1 is more
vulnerable to hail damage than at any
other period because the tassel and
all leaves are completely exposed .
Complete leaf removal by hail at this
stage wi ll result in essentially Fig: 29. Dissected VT plant
complete loss of grain yield .

The pollen shed period will extend for

one to two weeks. During this time,
each individual silk must emerge for
pollination if a kernel is to develop.

Tassel growth and development are

summarized in figs 32 and 33 from
V9 through pollen shed . Figures 34
and 35 show a tassel segment before
and during pollen shed .

Fig . 30. VT ear shoots from bottom (left) to top. Fig. 31 . Brace roots.

11
 Fig. 33. Tassel development from V14 (left) to R1 (pollen shed).

Fig. 32. Tassel development from V9 (right) to

V14.

Fig. 35. Tassel during pollen shed.

Fig . 34. Tassel before pollen shed.

12
Reproductive Stages and Kernel Development
The six reproductive stages discussed middle to reveal the inner material.
here mostly concern development of Figure 38 reveals the presence of silk
the kernel and its parts. All of the hairs which help catch the pollen .
stage descriptions are the beginning
or initiation of the stage unless Management Guides
otherwise stated . Kernel descriptions The number of ovules that will be
of the R2, R3, and R4 stages fertilized is being determined at this
generally apply to all kernels on the time. Ovules that are not fertilized will
ear, but kernels from the middle of the not produce kernels and will
ear should be used to judge the eventually degenerate.
stage. Kernel descriptions of the R5
and R6 stages pertain to all kernels Environmental stress at this time Fig . 37. R1 kernels.
on the ear. The top ear of a prolific causes poor pollination and seed set,
plant shou iQ be used to judge the especially moisture stress which tends
stage unless the stage of the lower to dessicate the silks and pollen
ears is specifically desired . grains. Stress will usually result in a
nubbin , an ear with a barren tip .
R1 Stage--Silking
R1 begins when any silks are visible Watch for corn rootworm beetles
outside the husks, fig . 36. Pollination feeding on the silks and treat if
occurs when the falling pollen grains necessary.
are caught by these new moist silks.
A captured pollen grain takes about Potassium uptake is essentially
24 hours to grow down the silk to the complete, and nitrogen and Fig . 38. R1 silks.
ovule where fertilization occurs and phosphorus uptake are rapid. Leaf
the ovule becomes a kernel . Generally analysis for nutrients in the plant at
2-3 days are required for all silks on a thi s stage is highly correlated with
single ear to be exposed and final grain yield and yield response to
poll inated . The silks will grow from fertilizer applications.
2.5-3.8 em (1-1.5 inches) each day
and will continue to elongate until
fertilized .

The R1 ovule or kernel is almost

completely engulfed in the
surrounding cob materials (technically
termed the glumes, lemmas and
paleas) and is white in color on the
outside. The inner material of the R1
kernel is clear and has very little fluid
present. The embryo or germ is not
yet visible when dissected with a
razor blade (see fig . 37) . The shank
and husks attain full size between the
R1 and R2 stages.

Figure 37 displays (from left to right)

the R1 kernel (1) with surrounding
materials, (2) without surrounding
materials, and (3) sliced through the Fig. 36. R1 ear and shank enclosed in husks, ear and shank exposed, sectioned ear, and ear
cross-section.

13
R2 Stage-Blister (1 0-14 days accumulating , relocation of these
after silking) nutrients from vegetative to
R2 kernels are white on the outside reproductive plant parts has begun .
and resemble a blister in shape, fig .
39 and 40. The endosperm and its The kernels are now about 85 percent
now abundant inner flu id are clear in moisture, and their moisture
color and the tiny embryo can now be percentage will gradually decline from
seen upon careful dissection . here until harvest.
Although the embryo is still
developing slowly at this time, the
radicle , coleoptile, and first embryonic Fig. 39. R2 ear and shank enclosed in husks,
leaf have already formed . Thus, within ear and shank exposed , sectioned ear, and ear
cross-section.
the developing embryo is a
developing miniature corn plant.

Much of the kernel has grown out

from within the surrounding cob
materials by R2 and the cob is close
to or at full size. The silks, having
completed their flowering function , are
now darkening in color and beginning
to dry out. The silk color is influenced
by environmental conditions; hot, dry
conditions cause darker silks.
Fig. 40. R2 kernels.

Figure 40 displays (from left to right)

the R2 kernel (1) with the surrounding
materials, (2) intact as viewed from
the opposite side from the embryo,
(3) embryo side sliced longitudinall y to
reveal the front of the young embryo,
and (4) sliced longitudinally through
the center.

Figure 41 displays kernels from ears

that were (from left to right) 7, 10, 12
(R2) , and 18(R3) days after silking .
Each row then corresponds to the
same manner of kernel display as in
fig . 40.

Management Guides
Starch has just begun to accumulate
in the watery endosperm and the
kernels are beginning a period of
rapid steady dry matter accumulation
or seed-till. This rapid kernel
development will continue until close
to R6. Although total plant nitrogen
and phosphorus are still rapidly
Fig. 41 . Kernels at 7, 10, 12 (R2) and 18 (R3) days after silking.

14
R3 Stage-Milk (18-22 days
after silking)
The R3 kernel displays yellow color on
the outside, and the inner fluid is now
milky white due to accumulating
starch . Although initially slow to
develop , the embryo is growing
rapidly now and is easily seen upon
dissection. Most of the R3 kernel has
grown out from the surrounding cob
materials and the silks at this time are
brown and dry or becoming dry.

Figure 43 displays (from left to right)

the R3 kernel (1) with surrounding Fig. 44. R3, R4 and R5 ears.
materials, (2) intact as viewed from
the opposite side from the embryo,
(3) sliced longitudinally to reveal the
front of the young embryo, and (4)
sliced longitudinal ly through the

I t f t
center. Figure 44 shows sliced ears
from (left to right) R3 , R4 and R5
stages.

Management Guides
The kernels are now well into their
rapid rate of dry matter accumulation ,
and are about 80 percent moisture.
Cell divisions within the endosperm Fig. 43. R3 kernels.
are essentially complete by R3, so
growth is mostly due to cell expansion
and filling of the cells with starch .

Final yield depends on the number of

kernels that develop and the final size
or weight of the kernels. Although not
as severe as at R1 , stress now can
still have a profound effect on yield by
reducing both of these factors. As the
kernels mature, the amount of
potential yield reduction from stress
becomes less.

Fig. 42. R3 ear and shank enclosed in husks, ear and shank exposed , sectioned ear, and ear
cross-section.

15
 R4 Stage-Dough (24-28 days
after silking)
Continued starch accumulation in the
endosperm has now caused the milky
inner fluid to thicken to a pasty
consistency Usually four embryonic
leaves have formed by this time and
the R4 embryo has greatly increased
in size from the R3 stage. The shelled
cob is a light red to pink color
due to beginning color changes of the
surrounding materials (lemmas and
paleas).

Toward the middle of R4 , the embryo

side width will stretch across over half
of the kernel side width . Kernels must
be dissected longitudinally through
the center as with the far ri ght kernel
in fig . 46 to observe this. The reduced
fluid and increased solids within the
kernel at this time produce a doughy
consistency. Fig. 45. R4 ear and shank enclosed in husks, ear and shank exposed, sectioned ear, and ear
cross-section.

Just prior to R5, kernels along the

length of the ear begin to dent or dry
on top. The fifth and last embryonic
leaf, and the lateral seminal roots
have formed by this time. These five
embryonic leaves are the same first
leaves to appear the following season
after germination and VE .

Management Guides
The embryo continues to develop very
rapidly through this stage. The kernels
are now about 70 percent moisture
and have accumulated close to half of
their mature dry weight.

Fig . 46. R4 kernels.

16
RS Stage-Dent (35-42 days
after silking)
At R5, all or nearly all kernels are
dented or denting and the shelled
cob is dark red in color. The kernels
are drying down now beginning at the
top where a small hard white layer of
starch is forming . This starch layer
appears shortly after denting as a line
across the kernel when it is viewed
from the opposite embryo side (see
fig . 49) . With maturity, the hard starch Fig. 47. R5 ear and shank enclosed in husks,
layer and line wil l advance toward the ear and shank exposed , sectioned ear, and ear
base of [Link] (toward the cob) . cross-section.
Because the accumulated starch is
hard above the line but still soft below
the line , pressing the kernel with the
thumbnail can aid its detection.

Figure 49 detail s starch line

development with kernels and kernel
slices from the R4 (left) and three
progressively advanced R5 stages.
The kernel slices were laterally cut
from the top, middle and bottom
areas of the kernel.
Fig. 48. R5 kernels.
Management Guides
Stress encountered at th is stage wil l
reduce yields by reducing kernel
weight, not kernel number. A hard
early frost before the R6 stage may
halt dry matter accumulation and
cause premature black layer formation
(see R6 stage) . This cou ld also
reduce yields by causing delays in
harvest operations because
frost-damaged corn is slow to dry. To
reduce potential frost problems,
choose a hybrid that matures about
th ree weeks before the average first
ki lling frost date .

At the beginning of R5, kernels have

about 55 percent moisture content.

Fig. 49. Kernel starch line development.

17
R6 Stage-Physiological shortly after would be costly because
Maturity (55-65 days after drying the crop is expensive . It may
silking) be advantageous to let the crop
The R6 stage, fig . 50, is reached parti ally dry in the field after R6 before
when all kernels on the ear have harvesting, as long as field losses do
attained their maximum dry weight or not become a problem . The rate of
maximum dry matter accumulation . field drying after R6 depends on the
The hard starch layer has advanced hybrid and environment.
completely to the cob now and a
black or brown abscission layer has Harvest silage at R6 or slightly earlier.
formed , fig . 51 . Th is black layer
formation occurs progressively from
the tip ear kernels to the basal kernels
of the ear. It is also a good indication
of maximum dry weight (physiological
maturity) , and signals the end of
kernel growth for this season . The
husks and many leaves are no longer
green although the stalk may be.

Figure 52 displays an R6 kernel on

the opposite embryo side (left) and
slices laterally cut from the top , middle
and bottom of th e ke rnel.

Management Guides
The average kernel moisture content
at R6 (black layer formation) is 30-35 Fig. 51 . Black layer development.
percent; however, this can vary
considerably between hybrids and
environmental conditions. The grain is
not yet ready for safe storage, which
requires 13-15 percent moisture level
for shelled corn . Harvesting at R6 or

Fig. 50. R6 ear and shank enclosed in husks, Fig. 52. R6 ke rnels.
ear and shank exposed, sectioned ear, and ear
cross-section.

18
Conclusions
How a Corn Plant Grows Unfavorable conditions in early growth result in poor pollination of the ovules
Corn plants increase in weight slowly stages may limit the size of the leaves and restrict the number of kernels that
early in the growing season . But as (the photosynthetic factory) . In later develop; or growth may stop
more leaves are exposed to sunlight, stages, unfavorable conditions may prematurely and restrict the size of the
the rate of dry matter accumulation reduce the number of silks produced , kernels produced.
gradually increases.

The leaves of the plant are produced Dry Matter-Corn

first, followed by the leaf sheaths,
stalk, husks, ear shank, silks , cob and 100
finally the grain . By stage V1 0, 90
enough leaves are exposed to c
~ 80
0...
sunlight so the rate of dry matter
accumulatior: is rapid . .5 70
.S 60
Qj
Under favorable conditions, this rapid 'iii 50
~
rate of dry matter accumulation in the
~ 40
above-ground plant parts will continue 0
at a nearly constant daily rate until 'iii 30
0
near maturity (see fig . 53) . !-" 20
0
rf!- 10
Cell division in the leaves occurs at
the growing tip of the stem. Leaves 0
Ve V6 V12 V18 R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6
enlarge, become green, and increase
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
in dry weight as they emerge from the May June July August September
whorl and are exposed to light, but no

••
cell division or enlargement occurs in
the leaves after they are exposed. All Grain Husks, Lower Ear Shoots Leaf Sheaths
leaves are full size by V12, but only
Cob, Shank, Silks • Stalk, Tassel Leaves
about half of the leaves are exposed
to sunlight .
If a corn plant is grown under low Dry Matter-Corn
plant density, prolificness may result.
Increasing the number of plants in a 50
given area reduces the number of 45
ears per plant and the number of
~ 40
kernels per ear. This reduction is a:
greater for some hybrids than for .5 35
others. Grain production per hectare .s 30
Qj
(or acre) wil l increase with an increase 'iii 25
in number of plants per hectare until ~
>- 20
the advantage of more plants per 0
hectare is offset by the reduction in 'iii 15
0
number of kernels per plant. The : 10
0
optimum plant population is different
eft. 5
for different hybrids and in different
environments. 0
Ve V6 V12 V18 R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6
Highest yields will be obtained only 0 20 40 60 80 100 120
where environmental conditions are May June July August September
favorable at all stages of growth . Fig. 53. Dry matter accumulation in a corn plant.

19
Nutrient Uptake Nitrogen-Corn
Most of the dry weight of the plant
consists of organic carbonaceous 100
materials resulting from
photosynthesis and subsequent
processes. At least 12 nutrient 80
elements must be taken up for the
corn plant to grow and develop
normally. An adequate supply of each
~ 60
nutrient at each stage is essential for co
optimum growth at all stages. 0.
::J
(ij

The seasonal pattern of nutrient ~ 40

0
accumulation in the plant is similar to 'if.
that of dry matter accumulation (see
fig . 54) . However, nutrient uptake 20
begins even before the plant emerges
from the soil. The amounts of nutrients
taken up early in the growing season
0
are small, but the nutrient
Ve V6 V12 V18 R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6
concentrations in the soil surrounding 0 20 40 60 80 100 120
the roots of the small plant at that May June July Aug ust September
stage often must be high .
Grain Husks, Lower Ears • Leaf Sheaths
Uptake of potassium is completed
soon after silking , but uptake of the Cob, Shank, Silks • Stalk, Tassel • Leaves
other essential nutrients such as Phosphorus-Corn
nitrogen and phosphorus continues
until near maturity Much nitrogen and
100
phosphorus and some other nutrients
are translocated from vegetative plant
parts to the developing grain later in
the season. This translocation can 80
result in nutrient deficiencies in the
leaves unless adequate nutrients are
available to the plant during that ~ 60
period . co
0.
::J
(ij
A large portion of the nitrogen and
phosphorus taken up by the plant is ~ 40
0
removed in the grain that is harvested . 'if.
But most of the potassium taken up is
returned to the soil in the leaves, 20
stalks, and other plant residues ,
unless these plant parts are removed
for silage or other forms of feed . 0
Ve V6 V1 2 V18 R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
May June Ju ly August September

Fig . 54. Nutrient uptake of N, P and K by a corn plant.

20
 Fertilizer Applications system during the first weeks after not a major conce rn . For conse rva-
Although only relatively smal l amounts plant emergence. Fertilizer placement tion tillage systems on soils low in P
of ferti lizer nutrients are required in the in a band about 5.1 em (2 inches) to and K, a starter band or injection
very early stages of plant growth , high the side and slightly below the seed is 6 to 8 inches deep may be advan-
concentrations of nutrients in the root important so the seminal roots may tageous over broad cast applications.
zone at that time are beneficial in intercept the band of fertilizer. Roots Time and place ment of nitrogen
promoting early plant growth . Thi s is wil l branch and proliferate in and near fertili zers should be based on great-
the period when all the different plant the band of fertil izer after they contact est efficiency, minimizing potential
parts are being initiated and begin to it; but they are not attracted toward loss , and fitting into the production
grow. Even though the amount of the fertilizer band , so fertilizer must be system .
nutrients taken up is relatively small, placed where the roots are going to
final size of the leaves, ear and other be. Placing the fertilizer too near the The nodal roots begin to develop
plant parts depends to a large degree seed can result in salt injury to the above the coleoptile node at about
upon having an adequate supply of young plant. VE. Within 2 or 3 weeks after plant
nutrients available to the plant during emergence, the nodal roots become
this early part of the growing season. At later stages of growth , the plants the main root system of the plant. This
require much larger amounts of nodal root system becomes well
During early growth , the root system is nutrients . These nutrients must be in distributed in the soil , so precise
limited and the soil is often cold . The moist soil for effective root uptake . ferti lizer placement is less critical after
seminal (seed) root system wh ich is For all tillage systems , a soil testing these roots have developed .
elongating when the plant emerges high in. P and K should provide
from the soil, serves as the main root adequate nutrients and placement is Care should be taken that roots are
not destroyed by cultivation or by
sidedressing of fertilizer after the root
systems of the plants become
established.
Potassium-Corn

100
Summary
Th e amount of grain produced by the
80 corn factory will depend upon the rate
and length of time of dry matter
accumulation. Take advantage of
these implications by using these
~ 60
<0 pointers to produce high yields
a. • Fertilize according to soil tests for
:::::>
(ij
the production level you want.
;§ 40
• Select the hybrid best suited to your
0
rf farm operation.
• Plant early at the correct population
20 and spacing (density) .
• Eliminate competition from weeds ,
diseases and insects.
0
• Carry out all other cu ltural practices
Ve V6 V12 V18 R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 to maximize the rate and length of
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 time of dry matter accumulation in the
May June July August September grain .

21
 STATE LIBRARY OF OWA
• 13!1 g
DES MOINES, IOWA 50

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® and justice for all Cooperative Extension Service. Iowa State

The Iowa Cooperative Extension Service's University of Science and Technology and the
programs and policies are consistent with United States Department of Agriculture
pertinent federal and state laws and regulations cooperating . Robert L. Cram, director, Ames.
on non-discrimination regarding race , color, Iowa. Distributed in furtherance of the Acts of
national origin , rel igion , sex, age, and handicap . Congress of May 8 and June 30. 1914. File: Agronomy 1