Nitrogen and Water Needs for Early Season Corn

As we get corn planted in the ground, we can start to think about future needs of the developing plants.  However, if we help deliver nitrogen and water to the plants before their time, we don’t do them any favors.

As expected, small seedlings at VE-V2 stage do not require much in the way of nitrogen or water.  Generally, about 1.2” of water is needed to imbibe the seed and start it on its way.  The plant will utilize nitrogen in the form of protein in the germ of the kernel.  So far, so good.

As the corn develops between V2 and V6 growth stages, the nitrogen and water requirements increase a little.  For water, the uptake is approximately 0.09 to 0.20” of water per day, or 3-4".  For nitrogen, about 6% of the total season-long uptake is performed before V6.

As we’ve discussed before, we want to provide the corn with a “Goldilocks” environment – not too wet, not too dry, but just moist enough to create a good environment for beneficial bacteria.  This also causes the developing roots to develop deeper in search of water and nutrients; too much water at this time can create an anaerobic environment, stunt root development, and cause nitrogen loss.  Too little water during this time can stress the developing plants, even killing them if the water stress is too great.

At these early growth stages corn can take some abuse, however.  The growing point is just below the surface for most of this time, so the crop can recover if a sporadic hailstorm occurs and destroys the above-ground vegetation.  However, we want to create the best environment we can; if we can control water through either irrigation or tile drainage, utilize it to maintain that sweet, balanced environment.

We know that corn’s rapid nitrogen uptake starts shortly after V6; oftentimes we stage some or all of our nitrogen ahead this period for operational efficiency, but the reality is we are risking a high dollar input by placing too much of it too early.  Having some in the ground as the crop enters V6 is wise, but balancing the rest of the nitrogen applications as the crop enters mid-vegetative growth stage is a wise decision.

Another wise decision is to utilize digital tools that both model and measure the growth and development of the corn plants, like Sentinel All-N and the Nave line of water management services.  While input costs are tight, having better intelligence about what is going on with your crop is important.  Tools like these give you crucial insights, not just early in crop development but all season long. 

Talk to your Sentinel service provider or account manager today to learn more and get started.