Corn in the backyard 2011, week 12

August 7

Last week growing degree days = 221
Historical average growing degree days = 175

Growing degree days since planting = 2151
Historical average since planting = 1858

We collected about the same number of growing degree units this week as we did the week before, which was significantly higher than average in both cases.  Even though we didn't have any appreciable rain, the corn has shown little sign of stress, and appears to be maturing normally.  The stalk drying continued slowly this week, but still has a long way to go before this season is over.

Here's a closer view of the two stalks we've been watching.  The ears are still looking good and should be continuing to build healthy kernels.  By the measure of growing degree units, these ears should have about another month before the black layer develops.  We'll stay on top of that and everything else happening in the field this summer.  Thanks for visiting!