Purple Corn Syndrome
In this blog Russ Barker, provides an expert analysis of purple corn syndrome.
Purple corn syndrome can be seen right now in a number of fields.
The symptom is tied to a genetic expression of anthocyanin pigmentation when sugar levels within a young corn plant are not all consumed.
Key points.
1. Not all hybrids will turn purple because some corn lines lack the gene that triggers the anthocyanin pigment. This does not necessarily mean that the purple hybrid will yield less than the non-purple hybrid.
2. Can be caused by many factors, but often it is an indication of restricted root growth. Restricted root growth is caused by a combination of shallow planting, compaction, tight seedbeds and cold soil temperatures.
