The flowering stage of corn refers to the period from tasseling to full maturity. During this phase, vegetative growth has largely ceased, and the plant shifts its focus to reproductive development, particularly pollination and fertilization. This is a crucial time for yield formation, as it determines the number of kernels and their weight. Effective management during this stage is essential to ensure healthy growth, maximize grain production, and improve overall yield.

   1. Apply fertilizer appropriately. Corn requires adequate nutrients during the flowering stage to support its high photosynthetic efficiency and long leaf function period. The timing of fertilizer application depends on the visual condition of the plants. If the plants are healthy, with dark green leaves and no signs of early decline, additional fertilizer may not be needed. However, if the plants appear weak or stunted, applying granular fertilizer can help. Typically, 5 kg of urea or 10–15 kg of ammonium bicarbonate is applied before or after the flowering stage, often combined with irrigation to ensure optimal nutrient uptake.

   2. Remove tassels in a timely manner. De-tasseling helps reduce nutrient competition, promotes energy transfer to the ear, increases light penetration, and improves lodging resistance. It also helps remove pests like corn borers and aphids from the field. The best time to de-tassel is just before the tassel fully emerges, avoiding damage to the leaves. Proper de-tasseling can increase yield by approximately 10%.

   3. Perform artificial pollination. This technique ensures better pollination and fertilization, reduces barren kernels, and improves kernel uniformity. It is especially useful for plants that flower late or are weak. Pollination should be done during the late flowering stage, ideally between 9 and 11 am on a sunny day. Collecting pollen and applying it manually for 2–3 times can significantly improve seed set.

   4. Ensure proper watering and drainage. The flowering and grain-filling stages require significant water. Soil moisture should be maintained at 70–80% of the field's maximum water-holding capacity. Two key irrigation periods are critical: one during flowering and grain formation, and another during the milk stage to boost grain weight. Sandy soils need more frequent watering, while clay soils can be irrigated less often. Excessive rain should be drained promptly to avoid waterlogging.

   5. Remove weak or empty stalks. Some plants may not develop properly, leading to empty or small ears. These plants waste resources and hinder the growth of others. Removing them after pollination allows the remaining plants to receive more nutrients and water, resulting in larger, more productive ears.

   6. Shallow cultivation and weeding. Light soil loosening after the filling stage helps break up compacted soil, promote root growth, and enhance nutrient absorption. Care must be taken not to damage the roots or cut the leaves during this process.

   7. Control pests and diseases. Common pests include corn borers, armyworms, cotton bollworms, and aphids. Diseases such as size spot and rust can also affect yield. Insecticides like DDVP and phoxim are used for pest control, while fungicides like carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl are applied to manage fungal diseases. Regular spraying is essential to protect the crop.

   8. Harvest at the right time. Corn is ready for harvest when the leaves turn yellow, the kernels become hard, and a black layer forms at the base of the kernels. Delaying harvest by 5–7 days, if conditions allow, can further increase yield and grain quality.

Source of information: Farmers Daily    Author: Chen Maochun

 

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