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How corn plants/yields depend on boron

University scientists have found that the right amount of boron in the soil helps stem cell growth and development in corn. Dr. Paula McSteen, University of Missouri associate professor at the Bond Life Sciences Center, says that’s why boron soil supplementation is needed in areas where deficiencies are likely. She tells Brownfield Ag News…

“For farmers, I think the important thing is to be aware that the entire eastern half of the country is boron deficient and to make sure to be testing their soils every year and applying the correct amount of boron in order to get the maximum amount of yield, they call it maximizing their yield potential.”

It’s been known that boron deficiency can delay corn development, but it was not previously known HOW that happened. Insufficient boron caused growing stems in corn plants to disintegrate. For best corn yields, McSteen says, growers need to apply boron early in the season, every year, “It’s really needed while the tassel, the male parts of the plant are growing. That’s about two weeks old. And, while the ear is developing which is about five weeks old.”

She says Missouri and the Eastern Corn belt states are boron deficient. Boron is an essential micronutrient for plants and people.