Dan Quinn

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During the week of August 11, much of Indiana received excessive to record-setting rainfall (Figure 1). Portions of eastern Indiana, for example, received more than 13 inches of rainfall, setting local rainfall records and producing conditions rarely or ever experienced in the region. The 2026 growing season continues to be characterized by highly variable and extreme weather events, particularly during the latter half of the growing season. These conditions have introduced questions about how excessive rainfall, saturated soils, and also extended cloudy weather may influence corn grain fill, yield, stalk quality, and harvestability. Therefore, this article helps to provide insights on the late-season impacts of these weather events and also what Indiana corn farmers should be paying attention to as harvest season approaches. Excessive Rainfall and Saturated Soils One small sliver of hope is that corn is generally less susceptible to waterlogging and saturation during reproductive development than during early[Read More…]


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Throughout July in Indiana, tassels begin to emerge above the corn canopy, signaling the start of pollination. Although pollination lasts only about one to two weeks, it is one of the most critical stages of corn development because it determines kernel set and largely establishes the crop’s yield potential. Corn is also highly vulnerable during this period, often experiencing its greatest yield loss per day when exposed to stresses such as drought or hail. Corn is a monoecious species, meaning each plant produces both male (tassel) and female (silks) flowers. Therefore, successful pollination depends on pollen being released from the tassel and reaching receptive silks at the right time. Any stress that disrupts the synchronization between pollen shed and silk emergence can reduce kernel set and ultimately decrease grain yield. One of the most recognizable structures during corn pollination is the anther or the small, dangling structures that hang from[Read More…]








With planting now wrapped up nationwide, corn emergence is nearing completion across much of the Corn Belt. Emergence in Indiana has progressed well, reaching 89%, up from 81% the previous week, although it is still slightly behind the five-year average of 94%.