As we discussed last time, at the R5 growth stage, corn is dying to fill the developed kernels with photosynthate by remobilizing nutrients from leaves and stalk into the ear. If the plant already has reduced levels of nitrogen due to stress or poor management, excessive cannibalization as senescence will occur. But what happens if there's plenty of nitrogen during the R5 growth stage? Will that make more grain yield, higher protein, both, or neither? Under High N Managemen

Maximizing corn yield depends on a strong “solar collection system” of healthy upper canopy leaves and sufficient nitrogen during reproduction. Research shows upper leaves drive 80–90% of photosynthesis, while lower leaves serve as nutrient reserves. Effective nitrogen management—especially during grain fill—helps prevent stress, maintain kernel weight, and protect yield potential.