The flowering stage in corn refers to the period from tasseling to full maturity. During this time, vegetative growth has largely concluded, and the plant shifts its focus to reproductive growth, centered on pollination and fertilization. This phase is crucial for yield formation, as it determines the number of kernels and their weight. Effective management during this period aims to strengthen root development, protect leaf health, prevent early aging, and prolong the functional life of green leaves. It also focuses on reducing kernel abortion and improving both the pollination rate and grain weight.
One of the key practices during this stage is applying "attacking fertilizer" appropriately. High-yield farming has shown that a large leaf area, high photosynthetic efficiency, and long-lasting leaf function are essential for achieving good yields. Sufficient inorganic nutrients during the flowering stage are vital for healthy stalk development. The application of attacking fertilizer should be based on the condition of the plants in the field. If the plants appear vigorous with dark green leaves and no signs of decline, additional fertilizer may not be needed to avoid extending the growth cycle. However, if the plants show signs of weakness, granular fertilizer should be applied. Typically, 5 kg of urea or 10–15 kg of ammonium bicarbonate is applied before or after the ear's flowering stage, often combined with irrigation. In cases where the plants lack nutrients during the grain-filling stage, foliar sprays can be used, such as 1–2% urea solution, 3–5% superphosphate solution, or 0.1–0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution, which helps extend leaf function and increase the thousand-kernel weight by more than 7%.
Another important practice is de-tasseling, which involves removing male flowers to reduce nutrient competition, promote nutrient flow to the ears, improve light penetration, and enhance lodging resistance. De-tasseling also helps remove pests like corn borers and aphids from the field. This process should be done before the tassel fully emerges, as removing it too early can reduce the photosynthetic area. The ideal time is when the tassel is just beginning to emerge. It is recommended to remove no more than half of the male plants, avoiding removal on rainy or extremely hot days to prevent pollen deficiency, which could lead to barren kernels.
Artificial pollination is another technique used to ensure proper fertilization, especially in fields where silking is delayed or plants are weak. This method increases seed set, reduces barrenness, and improves grain uniformity. Pollination is typically done in the late morning on sunny days, collecting pollen and applying it multiple times over 2–3 days. Care must be taken to ensure cross-pollination between different plants.
Water management is critical during the flowering and grain-filling stages, as corn requires about 50% of its total water needs during this period. Soil moisture should ideally be maintained at 70–80% of the field’s maximum water-holding capacity. Two key watering periods are: one during the flowering to grain formation stage to support kernel development, and another during the milk stage to increase grain weight. Sandy soils may require more frequent irrigation, while clay soils should be watered promptly. Excessive rainfall should be managed through drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Removing small or empty stalks is also an effective strategy. These weak plants consume resources without contributing significantly to yield. Removing them after pollination allows the remaining plants to receive more nutrients and water, leading to larger, more productive ears.
Shallow cultivation during the later stages of grain filling helps break up soil compaction, promote root activity, and control weeds. This practice supports better nutrient uptake and prevents premature aging.
Pest and disease control is essential during this period. Common pests include corn borers, armyworms, cotton bollworms, and aphids, while diseases like leaf spot and rust can also affect the crop. Insecticides such as DDVP, phoxim, and omethoate can be used for pest control, while fungicides like carbendazim and triadimefon help manage fungal infections.
Finally, timely harvesting is crucial. Corn is ready for harvest when the leaves turn yellow, the kernels harden, and a black layer forms at the base of the kernels. Delaying harvest by 5–7 days, if conditions allow, can further increase yield.
Author: Chen Maochun
Source: Farmers Daily
Pneumatic Ball Valve,Wear-Resistant Control Valve,High Pressure Ball Valve,O-Type Ball Valve
CEPAI Group Co., Ltd. , https://www.jscepai.com