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Seedling vigor is a function of environment and genetics, and the
rating quantifies the ability of emerging corn seedlings to grow
vigorously early
in the growing season, especially if conditions are cold and wet.
Aggressive
seedling vigor is desirable during cool growing seasons, because fast
growing plants reach pollination sooner, providing longer grain fill
and generating higher grain yields. Some hybrids struggle with early
season growth during cool, wet springs. The effected seedlings exhibit
purple
plants, caused by the failure to Trans-locate sugars to the roots.
Sugar reacts with sunlight, forming purple anthocyanin pigments. This
purple
coloring indicates stress on the seedlings and is a visual indicator
for potential herbicide injury.
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