What are the symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in corn?

The symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in corn manifest primarily through yellowing of the lower leaves and stunted growth. Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for corn as it plays a crucial role in photosynthesis and the overall growth of the plant. When nitrogen levels are insufficient, the plant cannot produce adequate chlorophyll, leading to the characteristic yellowing, particularly of older, lower leaves, since nitrogen is mobile within the plant and is often reallocated to the younger leaves. Stunted growth occurs because nitrogen promotes cell division and expansion, and without it, the corn plant fails to grow to its full potential. This is a clear sign to agronomists and farmers that there is a deficiency that needs to be addressed to optimize yield.