Mississippi Corn Hurt by April Chill

Mississippi corn does not like 28 degree chill. April 7th and 8th most of the northern part of the Mississippi Delta got that cold. It seemed like most young, tender growth was hurt on many types of plants.

These pictures were taken on April 11th. Some corn seemingly was hurt worse than others.

Perhaps more recently emerged plants were hurt more than older plants. Experts suggest that the plant will live if the growing point was below ground at the time of the freeze.

Damage seemed uneven within the same field. It was more “streaky” (down the row) rather than “patchy” (areas within the field),

See the “dust devil.” Sightings of the little dust tornado is usually reserved for hot, dry July and August. I do not remember ever seeing this dry weather sign in April before.

Bottom line: Experts have yet to predict the impact on yield even if the plants survive. Nor have I heard predictions as to the impact on state yield. We are still waiting to see the impact of the freeze on wheat which was in the boot or heading stage. Stay tuned.