Corn in the backyard 2011, week 13

 August 14

Last week growing degree days = 168
Historical average growing degree days = 168

Growing degree days since planting = 2319
Historical average since planting = 2026

We finally got a break from the heat last week as we had three days in a row of below average temperatures.  That hadn't happened since June 29.  You might also have noticed the growing degree units for the week were consistent with an average year, which hasn't happened since week six.  The ears should still be developing kernels as we're over 400 growing degree units shy of what this hybrid requires.  The stalks are showing definite signs of drying as most of the plants I surveyed were displaying between one and five dry leaves.

Here's the latest close-up of the stalks and ears we're watching this year.  Everything looks good to this amateur corn watcher.  Stay tuned for more updates.