Corn Root Damage

Improper Planting

• When corn is planted at a depth of less than an inch, the roots cannot form properly. If a storm or a strong wind hits a field of new corn that was not planted deep enough, the stalks will be blown away. In addition, as the corn matures and becomes more top heavy, it will simply pull itself out of the ground. Corn should always be planted at least an inch deep in the soil.

Western Corn Root Worm

• The western corn root worm is a devastating pest for farmers and gardeners. It feeds on the roots of corn and burrows into the root system to lay its eggs. When the larvae hatch, they feed on what remains of the root system. This causes the plant to weaken both in its support system and because the plant can't draw sufficient nutrients from its roots. Entire crops can be lost to a severe infestation of this worm.

Pests

• Other pests can also cause corn root damage. This is particularly true when corn has just been planted and does not have an established root system. Crows can dig up corn roots for a snack, and deer nibbling on the leaves of the plant can also uproot it. Plants that do not die immediately cannot thrive due to the damage done to their root system. They will typically sicken and then wilt before finally dying.

Nematodes

• Corn nematodes are another serious pest that can cause corn root damage. Nematodes are wormlike creatures that lay their eggs in what are called cysts within the corn plant. The adult nematode feeds on the plant and the root, and their larvae will as well when they hatch. If crops are not rotated every four to five years, corn nematodes can establish and wipe out the entire planting.