Chad Lee, Extension Agronomist, University of Kentucky
Leaf striping on corn is being reported across the state. The recent cooler, cloudy weather is probably a big factor in many fields. In these cases, the symptoms are temporary or transient. They are cured by ample sunshine and warmer weather.
Other fields have a legitimate deficiency. Soil testing will identify those deficiencies. A tissue test will likely show a deficiency, but won't explain why it is occurring. A soil test will explain why. If the soil is deficient, then apply the appropriate fertilizer if at all possible. If the soil is test is adequate or above, then wait for the sunshine.
While pulling the soil test, dig up a few roots. Sidewall compaction can lead to these symptoms as well. I'm sure no one reading this post "mudded-in" corn. But your neighbors may have! Feel free to pass this along to them to check for sidewall compaction. If they have sidewall compaction, there is not much they can do. Sidewall compaction is a field where they should cut their losses and move on.
Here are some previous articles on corn leaf striping.
Temporary Sulfur Deficiency in Corn, Chad Lee
Early Season Corn Nutrient Deficiencies and Management Options - Chad Lee
Corn Leaf Striping: Weather Most Likely the Problem Here - Chad Lee
Striped Corn: potential nutrient deficiencies - Jim Camborato, Purdue
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| Cloudy skies and cool weather can make corn appear deficient. |
Other fields have a legitimate deficiency. Soil testing will identify those deficiencies. A tissue test will likely show a deficiency, but won't explain why it is occurring. A soil test will explain why. If the soil is deficient, then apply the appropriate fertilizer if at all possible. If the soil is test is adequate or above, then wait for the sunshine.
While pulling the soil test, dig up a few roots. Sidewall compaction can lead to these symptoms as well. I'm sure no one reading this post "mudded-in" corn. But your neighbors may have! Feel free to pass this along to them to check for sidewall compaction. If they have sidewall compaction, there is not much they can do. Sidewall compaction is a field where they should cut their losses and move on.
Here are some previous articles on corn leaf striping.
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| Soil test for Zn was low in this field. Zn fertilizer is recommended. Zn deficiency is the most common nutrient causing these symptoms for this region. |
Temporary Sulfur Deficiency in Corn, Chad Lee
Early Season Corn Nutrient Deficiencies and Management Options - Chad Lee
Corn Leaf Striping: Weather Most Likely the Problem Here - Chad Lee
Striped Corn: potential nutrient deficiencies - Jim Camborato, Purdue
The Grain Crop Update needs to broaden its appeal by discussing the minor grains including rye and barley. Plantings are growing as more distilleries introduce new products like rye whiskey and malted barely presentations. I have yet to see one article on rye and yet we have 200 acres contracted this year up from 10 last year.
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