How to Determine Growth Stages of Young Corn or Sorghum

V5 Growth Stage. Five fully emerged leaves with leaf collars are present. The first leaf should be counted, regardless of whether it is dead or no longer attached. V5 corn is usually 10 to 15 inches tall.

Corn vegetative growth stages are designated by a V with a number following representing fully developed, emerged leaves. Only those leaves which have a leaf collar visible are fully developed and count as an appropriate growth stage.  After corn plants reach the V5 or V6 growth stage, the first leaf normally dies and is pulled loose from the stem as it elongates and nodal root development increases.  Harsh environmental conditions, such as sand-blasting or hot, dry wind can also kill and dislodge lower leaves.  However, every leaf, regardless of whether they are dead or even no longer attached, must be counted to determine appropriate growth stage. The plant height of corn plants at a given growth stage may vary a little depending upon planting date and growing conditions. Later-planting and favorable conditions will generally enhance height.

V3 Growth Stage. The first leaf is normally about 1.75″ long and rounded on the tip. Each successive leaf is pointed and longer. V3 corn is usually about 5 to 7 inches tall.

V6 Growth Stage. The growing point moves above the soil surface and rapid growth begins.