If no pollen is available, silk elongation will continue but eventually slows to a stop within about 9 days after emergence, the result of which is indeed longer than expected silks. Kernel set near the base of the cob may fail if the silks deteriorate enough prior to pollen shed that they become non-receptive.

Severe photosynthetic stress during or shortly after pollination in corn often results in poorly filled ears due to incomplete pollination or abortion of young kernels.

Serious crop stress during the grain filling period of corn increases the risk of stalk rots and stalk lodging (breakage) prior to grain harvest.

The federal government expects the nation to grow bumper crops of corn and soybeans for the second consecutive year, adding to already adequate supplies but further holding down prices farmers will get for their productivity.

The 2014 corn planting season is certainly off to a slow start in Indiana and elsewhere across the Midwest, primarily due to delayed drying and warming of soils.

Kevin Kimberly has compelling numbers that show not only how far the science of efficient planting has come, but how quickly things can fall apart for no-tillers.