Although the ear shoots (potential ears) were formed just before tassel formation (V5), the number of ovules (potential kernels) on each ear and the size of the ear are now being determined at the V12 stage, figures 15-19.

The number of rows of kernels per ear (figure 18) has already been established, but the determination of the number of kernels per row will not be complete until about one week from silking or about V17.

The top ear shoot (figure 19) is still smaller than the lower ear shoots at this time; however, many of the upper ears are close to the same size.

Management Guides - V12 Stage

Because ovule number and ear size are now being determined, moisture or nutrient deficiencies at this time may seriously reduce the potential number of seeds and size of ears harvested. The potential for these two harvest factors is also related to the length of time available for their determination, usually from about V10 through V17. Earlier maturing hybrids will generally progress through these stages in a shorter time, and usually have smaller ears than later maturing hybrids. Thus, higher plant densities are needed for early maturing hybrids to produce comparable seed yields.

figure 15

figure 16

figure 17

figure 18

figure 19

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