Corn Leaves Turning Yellow and Brown: 7 Causes, Solutions & Best Care Tips

Corn plants are a popular crop worldwide due to their versatility in the kitchen and their ability to grow in a wide range of climates. However, yellowing and browning of corn leaves can be a common problem for farmers and gardeners alike. Understanding the causes of this issue is crucial to prevent yield losses and maintain plant health.

There are several reasons why corn leaves may turn yellow and brown. One of the most common causes is nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen. Corn plants require a significant amount of nitrogen to grow, and a lack of this nutrient can lead to yellowing of leaves.

Other causes include inadequate watering, pests and diseases, and environmental factors such as high temperatures or low humidity. By identifying the underlying cause of the problem, farmers and gardeners can take appropriate steps to rectify the issue and prevent further damage to their crops.

Key Takeaways on Corn Leaves Turning Yellow and Brown

• Yellowing and browning of corn leaves can be a common problem for farmers and gardeners.
• Nutrient deficiencies, inadequate watering, pests and diseases, and environmental factors are some of the causes of yellowing and browning of corn leaves.
• Identifying the underlying cause of the problem is crucial to prevent yield losses and maintain plant health.

Check out these other top picks in this category:

• Cordyline Leaves Turning Brown
• Coral Bells Leaves Turning Brown
• Coleus Leaves Turning Brown

Understanding Corn Plant and Its Leaves

Corn is a tall, annual cereal grass that is widely grown for its nutritious seeds or kernels. It is an important crop that is used for a variety of purposes, including animal feed, human consumption, and industrial uses. Corn plants are characterized by their long, narrow leaves that grow in an alternating pattern along the stem.

One common problem that corn growers face is the yellowing and browning of corn plant leaves. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, and environmental stress.

When the leaves of a corn plant turn yellow, it is often a sign that the plant is not getting enough nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for corn plants, and a lack of it can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the plant to become stunted.

Another common cause of yellowing and browning of corn plant leaves is environmental stress. Corn plants are sensitive to changes in temperature, moisture, and light, and can be easily stressed by extreme weather conditions.

For example, hot and dry weather can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown, while cold and wet weather can lead to fungal diseases that cause the leaves to rot.

In addition to yellowing and browning, corn plant leaves can also exhibit other symptoms of stress and disease. For example, brown leaf tips can be a sign of over-fertilization or salt buildup in the soil, while brown spots on the leaves can indicate fungal or bacterial infections.

To prevent yellowing and browning of corn plant leaves, it is important to provide the plant with adequate nutrients, water, and sunlight. This can be achieved through proper fertilization, irrigation, and crop management practices.

Additionally, it is important to monitor the plant for signs of stress and disease, and to take appropriate measures to address any issues that arise.

Corn Leaves Turning Yellow and Brown – 4 Common Problems

Corn plants are known for their tall green stalks and large ears of corn. However, when the leaves of the corn plant start to turn yellow or brown, it can be a sign of a problem.

There are several possible causes of yellowing and browning leaves on corn plants, including nutrient deficiencies, overwatering and underwatering, disease and pests, and environmental factors.

1. Nutrient Deficiencies

One common cause of yellowing and browning leaves on corn plants is nutrient deficiencies. Corn plants require a variety of nutrients to grow and thrive, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If the soil is lacking in any of these nutrients, it can cause the leaves of the corn plant to turn yellow or brown.

2. Overwatering and Underwatering

Another possible cause of yellowing and browning leaves on corn plants is overwatering or underwatering. Corn plants require a consistent amount of water to grow and thrive. If the soil is too wet or too dry, it can cause stress to the plant and lead to yellowing or browning leaves.

3. Disease and Pests

Disease and pests can also cause yellowing and browning leaves on corn plants. Common diseases that affect corn plants include gray leaf spot, northern corn leaf blight, and southern corn leaf blight. Pests that can damage corn plants include corn earworms, cutworms, and flea beetles.

4. Environmental Factors

Finally, environmental factors such as low humidity, high temperatures, and direct sunlight can also cause yellowing and browning leaves on corn plants. Corn plants prefer moderate temperatures and humidity levels between 50% and 70%. If the plant is exposed to direct sunlight for too long, it can cause the leaves to dry out and turn brown.

Understanding Nutrient Deficiencies

When corn leaves turn yellow or brown, it could be due to a lack of nutrients. Understanding the different types of nutrient deficiencies can help farmers and gardeners diagnose and treat the problem.

1. Nitrogen Deficiency

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for corn growth and development. When there is a lack of nitrogen, corn leaves turn yellow and may eventually die. The yellowing starts at the tip of the leaf and moves towards the base. The veins of the leaves remain green.

To treat nitrogen deficiency, farmers can apply nitrogen fertilizers to the soil. However, it is important to note that too much nitrogen can also cause problems, such as lodging and reduced yields.

2. Potassium Deficiency

Potassium is another important nutrient for corn growth. When there is a lack of potassium, corn leaves may turn yellow or brown around the edges. The edges of the leaves may also become necrotic.

Potassium deficiencies can also cause lodging of the crop because stalks are thin and weakened. To treat potassium deficiency, farmers can apply potassium fertilizers to the soil.

3. Sulfur and Zinc Deficiency

Sulfur and zinc are also essential nutrients for corn growth. Sulfur deficiency can cause yellowing of the leaves, while zinc deficiency can cause interveinal chlorosis and leathery upturned leaves.

To treat sulfur and zinc deficiency, farmers can apply fertilizers containing these nutrients to the soil. It is important to note that overapplication of these nutrients can cause toxicity, so it is important to follow recommended application rates.

4. Magnesium and Calcium Deficiency

Magnesium and calcium are important secondary nutrients for corn growth. When there is a lack of magnesium, corn leaves may turn yellow or have interveinal chlorosis. When there is a lack of calcium, corn leaves may have necrotic spots or a “burnt” appearance.

To treat magnesium and calcium deficiency, farmers can apply fertilizers containing these nutrients to the soil. It is important to note that overapplication of these nutrients can also cause problems, such as reduced uptake of other nutrients.

Overall, understanding nutrient deficiencies can help farmers and gardeners diagnose and treat problems with corn leaves turning yellow or brown. By providing the right nutrients in the right amounts, farmers can help ensure healthy corn growth and higher yields.

Water Management for Corn Plants

Corn plants require adequate watering to maintain their health and vitality. Watering practices that are too excessive or insufficient can lead to yellow or brown leaves. Understanding the symptoms of overwatering and underwatering, as well as adequate watering practices, can help prevent these issues.

Symptoms of Overwatering

Overwatering can be detrimental to corn plants. Symptoms of overwatering include yellowing leaves, a mushy stem, and a foul odor. The soil may also be excessively moist, and the plant may have stunted growth.

To prevent overwatering, ensure that the soil has adequate drainage and that water is not allowed to pool at the base of the plant. It is also important to avoid watering the plant too frequently.

Symptoms of Underwatering

If a corn plant is not receiving enough water, its leaves may turn brown and brittle. The soil may also be dry to the touch, and the plant may have stunted growth.

To prevent underwatering, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It is also important to water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.

Adequate Watering Practices

Adequate watering practices involve finding a balance between overwatering and underwatering. Corn plants require sufficient water to thrive, but excess water can lead to root rot and other issues.

To ensure adequate watering, use a well-draining soil mixture and a plant pot with plenty of drainage. Water the plant until water pours through the drainage holes, but do not allow water to pool at the base of the plant. Water the plant regularly, but avoid watering too frequently.

By following these watering practices and understanding the symptoms of overwatering and underwatering, corn plant owners can help maintain the health and vitality of their plants.

Disease and Pest Control

Common Diseases

Corn plants are susceptible to various diseases that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. Some common diseases that affect corn plants include:

• Bacterial Leaf Streak: This is a bacterial infection that causes yellow streaks on the leaves of corn plants. The streaks can turn brown and eventually cause the leaves to die.
• Gray Leaf Spot: This is a fungal infection that causes gray spots on the leaves of corn plants. As the disease progresses, the spots can turn brown and cause the leaves to die.
• Common Rust: This is a fungal infection that causes orange-brown pustules to form on the leaves of corn plants. The pustules can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die.

To control these diseases, it is important to practice good crop rotation and use resistant varieties of corn. Chemical pesticides can also be used, but they should be used sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.

Common Pests

Corn plants are also susceptible to various pests that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. Some common pests that affect corn plants include:

• Corn Earworm: This is a caterpillar that feeds on the ears of corn plants. The damage caused by corn earworms can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown.
• Corn Rootworm: This is a beetle that feeds on the roots of corn plants. The damage caused by corn rootworms can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die.
• Fall Armyworm: This is a caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of corn plants. The damage caused by fall armyworms can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown.

To control these pests, it is important to use chemical pesticides and practice good crop rotation. Resistant varieties of corn can also be used to prevent pest infestations.

Resistant Varieties of Corn

Planting resistant varieties of corn is an effective way to prevent diseases and pest infestations. Resistant varieties of corn have been bred to be resistant to specific diseases and pests, making them less susceptible to damage.

Some resistant varieties of corn include:

• DKC62-08: This variety is resistant to common rust and gray leaf spot.
• Pioneer 31G98: This variety is resistant to corn rootworm and corn earworm.
• Dekalb 64-85: This variety is resistant to bacterial leaf streak and common rust.

By planting resistant varieties of corn, farmers can reduce the need for chemical pesticides and prevent damage to their crops.

Environmental Factors and Their Impact

1. Temperature and Humidity

Corn plants thrive in warm temperatures of around 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day and 60-70°F (15-21°C) at night. If the temperature drops below 60°F (15°C), the plant may start to show signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves. Similarly, high humidity levels can also cause yellowing leaves, as it can lead to fungal diseases.

To maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, it is recommended to keep the corn plant in a room with a temperature range of 65-85°F (18-29°C) and a humidity level of 40-60%. If the air is too dry, a humidifier can be used to increase humidity levels.

2. Soil and Potting Mix

The soil and potting mix used for corn plants should be well-draining and rich in nutrients. If the soil is too compact, it can lead to poor drainage and cause water to accumulate, leading to root rot and yellowing leaves. On the other hand, if the soil is too sandy, it may not retain enough moisture, causing the plant to dry out.

To ensure proper drainage, it is recommended to use a potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite. Additionally, it is important to fertilize the plant regularly to provide it with the necessary nutrients.

3. Light Requirements

Corn plants require direct sunlight for at least six hours a day to thrive. If the plant is not receiving enough sunlight, it may start to show signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves. However, too much direct sunlight can also damage the plant and cause its leaves to turn brown.

To ensure that the plant is receiving enough sunlight, it is recommended to place it near a window that receives direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. If the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight, it can be moved to a spot that receives indirect sunlight.

4. Repotting

Corn plants should be repotted every two to three years to ensure that they have enough space to grow. If the plant is not repotted, it may become root-bound, leading to poor growth and yellowing leaves.

When repotting, it is important to use a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and to use a well-draining potting mix. Additionally, it is recommended to water the plant thoroughly after repotting to help it adjust to its new environment.

5. Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality can also impact the health of corn plants. If the air is too dry, it can lead to yellowing leaves, as the plant may not be able to absorb enough moisture. Additionally, if the air is too polluted, it can lead to poor growth and yellowing leaves.

To maintain good indoor air quality, it is recommended to use an air purifier and to keep the plant away from sources of pollution, such as cigarette smoke. Additionally, it is important to keep the plant away from drafts, as they can also cause stress and yellowing leaves.

Improving Soil Fertility

Importance of Soil Testing

Before planting corn, it is important to test the soil to determine its nutrient content. Soil testing helps to identify the nutrients that are deficient in the soil and those that are in excess. This information is crucial in determining the type and amount of fertilizer to apply.

Soil testing can be done by taking soil samples from various parts of the field. The samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will provide a report indicating the nutrient content of the soil and recommendations on the type and amount of fertilizer to apply.

Regular soil testing is important because the nutrient content of the soil can change over time. It is recommended that soil testing be done at least once every three years.

Using Fertilizers

Fertilizers are used to supplement the nutrients that are deficient in the soil. There are different types of fertilizers available, including organic and inorganic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers are derived from plant and animal sources, while inorganic fertilizers are manufactured.

For corn, a high nitrogen fertilizer is recommended because nitrogen is the most important nutrient for the growth of corn. A fertilizer labeled “16-16-8” is ideal because it contains 16% nitrogen, 16% phosphate, and 8% potassium. Nitrogen is the nutrient that is most readily available to the plant.

When applying fertilizer, it is important to follow the recommendations provided by the soil test report. Over-application of fertilizer can lead to nutrient runoff, which can be harmful to the environment. It is also important to apply fertilizer at the right time. For corn, fertilizer should be applied at planting and during the growing season.

Preventing Leaf Yellowing and Browning

Yellowing and browning of corn leaves are common problems that can lead to stunted growth and poor yield. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent this from happening.

One important factor to consider is proper watering. Overwatering or underwatering can cause stress to corn plants, leading to yellowing and browning of leaves. It is important to water the plants deeply and regularly, but avoid waterlogging the soil. Make sure to check the drainage hole of the container or the soil in the ground to ensure adequate drainage.

Another important factor is soil quality. Corn plants require well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline can cause nutrient deficiencies that can lead to yellowing and browning of leaves. It is important to test the soil periodically and amend it with organic matter or lime as needed.

Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing and browning of leaves. Corn plants require adequate amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients such as magnesium and iron. It is important to fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer that contains these nutrients.

Pests and diseases can also cause yellowing and browning of leaves. Common pests that attack corn plants include corn borers, earworms, and aphids. Diseases such as gray leaf spot and northern corn leaf blight can also cause leaf discoloration.

It is important to monitor the plants regularly and take appropriate measures to control pests and diseases if they are detected.

Frequently Asked Questions