By Blake Jackson
Corn plants have both male and female flowers on the same plant, with the tassel producing pollen and the ear housing the ovules. For successful kernel development, pollen must land on the silks and travel down to fertilize the ovules.
Pollination takes place during the VT (tasseling) and R1 (silking) stages. In modern hybrids, silks often emerge just as the tassel becomes visible, usually within a day. A single plant sheds pollen for about six to seven days, with the majority released over a three-day period, typically in the early morning to support efficient fertilization.
Corn is highly sensitive to stress, especially from one week before to one week after pollination. Severe drought can cause pollen to shed before silks appear or prevent pollen from reaching them. Even when pollination is successful, limited water can result in kernel abortion during early developmental stages, often first visible at the ear tip.
Irrigation is especially important during this critical window, as corn requires the most water during the pollination period. Adequate moisture supports fertilization and kernel growth.
Growers can check pollination success about a week later by removing the husks and gently shaking the ear. Fertilized silks fall off easily, while remaining silks indicate unfertilized ovules.
Following pollination, corn enters the seed-fill stage, lasting 30 to 40 days until maturity, marked by the formation of the "black layer."
FAQs
- What is the role of tassels in corn?
Tassels produce pollen needed for fertilizing the silks.
- When does pollination occur in corn
It happens during the VT (tasseling) and R1 (silking) stages.
- Why is irrigation important during pollination
Water demand is highest, and moisture ensures proper kernel formation.
- How can you check pollination success
By shaking the ear and observing if silks detach easily.
- What is the "black layer"?
It marks the final stage of kernel maturity in corn.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-luc-pouliot
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn