Tight Tassel Wrap
Tight tassel wrap occurs in corn plants when the tassel becomes trapped in upper leaves, which can hinder pollination and reduce yield. Two Extension specialists attribute the rare occurrence of tight tassel wrap during pollination to excess soil moisture and a sudden switch to high temperatures.
Iowa could be the nation’s top state this year for corn and soybeans, but both crops are in a race to beat disease pressure that’s gaining momentum. Illinois corn continues to ride the struggle bus, while the soybean crop there is positioned to deliver high yields.
So far pollination and disease issues are being discounted by the corn market. The key to how low prices could fall is dependent on just how much above 181 the corn yield is and will it show up in the Aug. 12 WASDE ?
The industry investigates the agronomic issue finding it can be attributed to many factors including environment, genetics and rapid growth stages.
Despite USDA’s strong corn condition ratings, more agronomists and farmers are reporting pollination problems from what’s being called ‘overly tight tassel wrap,’ an issue that can’t be seen until you walk into your fields.
In addition to keeping a watchful eye for southern rust and tar spot, some farmers and agronomists have been surprised to find pollination issues due to “overly tight tassel wrap.” Let us know how your corn crop is faring,
More reports of ‘overly tight tassel wrap’ are coming in across the Corn Belt – including from the reigning world champion corn grower. Hula shares how he strategically uses his planter to minimize pollination risks.
So far, the problem has been confirmed in four states. Agronomists are encouraging farmers to scout crops, estimate yield impacts in affected fields and determine whether to make adjustments to marketing plans.