Corn motion in the wind during senescence. I : Motion characteristics

Lodging in corn (Zea mays L.) is often the result of wind-induced motion, which creates a strain on the stalk and root system. A study was conducted to characterize corn motion during windy periods at senescence and examine the implications for lodging. Motion was measured on 23 plants with a modified computer joystick during 6 d in October, 1988, at West Lafayette, IN. The wind force on each plant was estimated from within-canopy wind speeds, foliage area distribution, and foliage drag coefficients. Results showed that corn stalk displacement during windy periods was variable over time (...)