Corn Plant Residue Age and Placement Effects Upon Early Corn Growth

The effect of corn (Zea mays L.) residue age and placement on early corn growth was studied in the greenhouse. Both fresh and partially decomposed corn residues were collected from the field, oven dried, ground, and placed as horizontal bands in sand- or soil-filled acrylic containers. Corn seeds were planted with one residue band placed either above, below, or at seed depth. A no-residue control treatment was also included. Fresh residues reduced root and shoot weights more than partially decomposed corn residue. The effects were most notable when roots came into direct contact with a residue layer. The total impact of corn seedling root contact with corn residue under field conditions is not known. However, evidence suggests that high residue levels in the vicinity of the seedling root may have negative impacts on seedling growth.