Maize seedling management needs "early management coarse early method"
September 21 09:33:44, 2025
Corn is sown during the seedling stage, which is also known as the jointing stage. This phase is crucial for the development of the root system, stem segment differentiation, and the establishment of the plant's growth center. The seedlings thrive in warm conditions, are relatively drought-resistant, but are highly sensitive to earthworms. They are also vulnerable to seedling shortages and competition from weeds. Therefore, the soil must remain loose to support healthy growth. Field management should focus on "early and thorough care" to avoid the formation of "old seedlings," aiming for strong, uniform, early, and adequate seedlings.
Key management practices include:
1. **Thinning and selecting seedlings**: It is important to thin out the seedlings during the three-leaf or four-leaf stage. Weak, diseased, or hybrid seedlings should be removed, leaving only the strongest ones. In areas with poor irrigation, two plants can be left per spot to maintain proper density.
2. **Weeding and cultivation**: After corn emergence, timely soil loosening helps control weeds and encourages deep root development. Cultivation should be done 2–3 times. The first cultivation is done before the seedlings appear, at a depth of 3–5 cm. The second and third cultivations are carried out before the jointing stage, with a depth of 8–10 cm. This practice ensures better soil aeration and root growth.
3. **Fertilization and watering**: Top-dressing is typically applied after the seedling stage and before jointing. This step promotes root development, strengthens the stalks, and lays the foundation for ear and tassel formation. If the soil lacks nutrients, an early application is necessary, especially for weak seedlings. Watering during this stage accounts for about 31.8% of the total water requirement, with a soil moisture content of around 65%. One to two irrigations are usually sufficient, with each irrigation covering approximately 667 square meters and using about 60 cubic meters of water. Drainage ditches should be dug to prevent waterlogging, and timely cultivation is essential to keep the plants healthy.
4. **Pest control**: Common pests during the seedling stage include armyworms and thrips. Armyworms can be controlled by spraying a 3000-fold dilution of 50% phoxim emulsion. Thrips can be managed with a 1500-fold dilution of 40% dimethoate or 50% dichlorvos emulsion. Spraying dimethoate or pyrethroid insecticides can also help eliminate aphids and other harmful insects, reducing the risk of viral diseases. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to maintaining healthy crops.