In recent months, farmers in Liulin Township, including Shunshuiping, Changcunba, Longshiping, and Gaofeng, have reported significant issues with corn seedlings under mulch. The problem varies across different planting dates, corn varieties, and fields, with a general lack of seedlings ranging from 15% to 30%, and in some cases reaching up to 80%. To investigate the issue, we visited Shunhuishui Village, located at about 1,300 meters above sea level.
**Reasons for Seedling Deficiency**
According to our survey, the main causes of the poor emergence this year are:
First, prolonged low temperatures and continuous rainfall after sowing have severely affected the growth of highland corn. Corn is a warm-weather crop that thrives in optimal temperatures. When temperatures are too low, germination slows down, leading to delayed emergence and weak seedlings. Research shows that the ideal temperature for corn germination is between 25–28°C, while the minimum temperature required is 6–7°C. However, when temperatures drop below 10°C, the process becomes significantly slower. In this county, the high-altitude areas experienced extended periods of cold, cloudy weather, sometimes with temperatures even dropping below 5°C—far below the threshold needed for proper germination. This has led to many seeds failing to sprout or emerging weakly.
Second, seed quality plays a crucial role. Different corn varieties have varying levels of germination strength and resilience. High-quality seeds with good storage conditions and short shelf life tend to perform better, especially under adverse weather. On the other hand, lower-quality seeds that were stored for longer periods or in poor conditions often struggle to survive harsh conditions, resulting in poor emergence.
Third, some farmers plant under wet and rainy conditions, which leads to soil that is too moist and cold. This environment hinders proper germination and increases the risk of seed rot.
Additionally, damage from rodents and birds can also contribute to the loss of seedlings in mulched fields.
**Preventive Measures**
To address these issues, it’s essential to take proactive steps. If seedling deficiencies are already observed, early intervention such as replanting is necessary. However, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some effective strategies:
1. **Sow at the Right Time**: In high-altitude regions, avoid planting too early. Wait until the ground temperature stabilizes around 10–12°C. This should be determined based on real-time weather conditions rather than just calendar dates.
2. **Use High-Quality Seeds**: Choose seeds with strong germination power, good quality, and proper storage. Before planting, expose the seeds to sunlight for 2–3 days to improve their vitality.
3. **Pre-Germinate Seeds**: Germinate the seeds in a controlled environment before planting. Select only the strongest sprouts to ensure better survival rates and faster emergence.
4. **Transplant Seedlings**: Using plastic trays with double-layer film can help create a warmer and more stable seedbed. Transplanting seedlings after they’ve been properly hardened off can significantly increase the chances of successful establishment, especially in early spring when temperatures are still low.
By implementing these measures, farmers can greatly reduce the risk of seedling losses and ensure a more robust corn harvest.
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