Understanding Rapid Growth Syndrome in Corn: What It Is and Why It’s No Cause for Alarm
Rapid Growth Syndrome is a temporary condition that affects corn plants, usually around the V5 to V6 growth stage. During this time, plants may appear tightly wrapped with twisted whorls, which can look alarming but is not harmful. The issue occurs when corn transitions quickly from slow growth due to cool, cloudy conditions to rapid development driven by warm, sunny weather.
As the inner leaves grow faster than the whorl can unwrap, they may remain trapped and cause the plant to look twisted. These tightly wrapped leaves may turn yellow as they’re exposed to sunlight. However, with just a few days of sunshine, the leaves typically push through and the plant resumes normal growth. Importantly, Rapid Growth Syndrome does not result in any yield loss and does not require any corrective action.