Northern Illinois Sweet Corn Crop Hit by Pollination Issues

Cornfields across Northern Illinois are looking healthy this season, but appearances can be deceiving. Many farmers in the area have announced they won't be selling sweet corn to the public due to poor pollination.

According to a local resident who grows sweet corn, the issue is likely due to a combination of hot weather and lack of rain after the tassels were released on July 4th. This allowed the silks to dry out too quickly, preventing proper pollination.

The kernels on affected ears are often scattered or missing in certain areas, unlike field corn which is processed into livestock feed or other products. Sweet corn is typically sold fresh and customers expect full, beautiful ears.