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Stalk Lodging - Always a Problem in Corn
Stalk lodging, by definition is the breakage of the stalk below the ear. Lodged corn results in increased harvest losses, slower harvest equipment speeds, increased drying cost and in most cases, a significant volunteer problem next season. Yield losses from stalk lodging range from 5 to 25 percent nationwide. In North Dakota the range is equally as large.
The three main causes of stalk lodging are late season severe weather, European corn borer and the stalk rot disease complex. The incidence and severity of stalk rot in any field will depend on the genetic susceptibility of the hybrid, the presence and virulence of the stalk rot organisms and the environmental conditions during the growing season. Almost all stress factors during the growing season can predispose the corn plant to invasion by stalk rot fungi. As a producer, you should put in place a management system to reduce stress in the corn field. This would include such items as proper hybrid selection, proper plant population, adequate moisture at critical times, full fertility program, insect control, crop rotation and timely scouting.
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