What are the causes of red seedlings in corn and what are the control measures?

Corn is one of the main grain crops in our country, but corn encounters various problems during its growth, such as red seedlings. So, what are the causes of red seedlings in corn? What are the control measures for red seedlings in corn? Let's take a look!

I. What are the causes of red seedlings in corn?

1. Phosphorus deficiency in the plant

When the soil is deficient in phosphorus, it cannot meet the growth needs of corn seedlings during the seedling stage, root growth and development are hindered, and the seedlings grow slowly. Because the phosphorus content in the seedling body gradually decreases, the leaves change from dark green to red or purple.

2. Water accumulation in the field

Poor drainage in the field and high soil moisture affect the respiration and metabolism of the root system. Root growth is hindered, resulting in poor nutrition in the plant and the appearance of red or purple color.

3. Damage by underground pests

When the seedling root system is bitten by underground pests (such as wireworms), its ability to absorb water and fertilizer weakens, causing the seedlings to become weak and form red seedlings.

4. Low temperature

In Northeast China or in spring-sown corn in the Huang-Huai-Hai region, corn is planted relatively early. In early spring, cold damage caused by a “late spring cold snap” can cause the entire corn seedling to turn red. In this situation, as the temperature rises, the red seedling phenomenon gradually eases and disappears later.

5. Phytotoxicity and pest damage

Phytotoxicity, pest damage, and other factors block sugar metabolism in corn seedlings and produce large amounts of anthocyanins, forming purple-red seedlings. If it occurs over a large area, consult experts at the local agricultural department promptly, identify the cause, and then carry out targeted remediation.

6. Other causes

Soil that is too sticky and heavy, sowing too deep or too shallow, improper fertilization causing “seedling burn,” and improper chemical treatment causing seedling poisoning can all lead to “red seedlings.”

II. Control measures for red seedlings in corn

1. Apply a 300-fold solution of monopotassium phosphate 2-3 times, spraying once every 3-4 days.

2. Low temperature can also cause corn seedlings to turn red. In Northeast China, corn is planted relatively early. In early spring, cold damage caused by a “late spring cold snap” can cause the entire corn seedling to turn red. In this situation, as the temperature rises, the red seedling phenomenon gradually eases and disappears later.

3. Phytotoxicity and pest damage can also cause corn seedlings to turn red. Phytotoxicity, pest damage, and other factors block sugar metabolism in corn seedlings and produce large amounts of anthocyanins, forming purple-red seedlings. If it occurs over a large area, consult experts at the local agricultural department promptly, identify the cause, and then carry out targeted remediation.

4. Apply phosphorus fertilizer early, mainly quick-acting phosphorus fertilizer. Apply 10-15 kg of superphosphate per mu, and you can also spray a 1% superphosphate extract combined with pest control.

5. Level the land and dig drainage ditches so that the water dries after rain stops and there is no water accumulation in the field.

6. Do a good job of controlling underground pests by soaking or dressing seeds with chemicals; coated seeds are best.

7. For fields sown too shallowly or with early seedlings, water at the proper time and loosen the soil by cultivating to preserve moisture, so as to promote strong seedlings.