Improving corn quality
Corn has different quality standards depending on the use of the crop. Corn grown for animal feed would need to have high protein and starch content, and for human consumption it should have low moisture level as well as high grain weight.
Good crop nutrition will ensure high protein and energy levels of grain in the corn cob. It will also help to boost the quality of the ensiled leaf material in forage crops.
Crop Nutrition and Corn Quality
Nitrogen and sulfur increase grain corn protein. Nitrogen supply has to be balanced to ensure good plant growth without increasing lodging risks and delaying maturity. An adequate amount of the nutrient lowers grain moisture content at maturity.
Potassium has a role to play in improving the level of amino acid and protein content in grain corn.
Phosphorus reduces grain moisture at harvest bringing forward corn crop maturity.
Micronutrient supply is also important in helping to maintain growth processes that encourage high yields of good quality grain.
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Improving grain corn protein and amino acids content
Good crop nutrition will ensure high protein and energy levels of grain in the corn cob. A correct balance of nitrogen, potassium, sulfur and zinc is particularly important in improving grain corn protein and amino acids content.
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Nitrogen and potassium are the most important nutrients to be considered when it comes to increasing corn resistance to lodging and frost.
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Role of Nutrients by Corn Growth Stage
Corn crops require the right nutrients, at the right time, to achieve the best results possible. Here you find an overview of the role of nutrients by corn growth stages.
