Tassel Wrap in Corn

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By Dairyland Seed Agronomy Team

Tassel wrap is a developmental abnormality of corn in which the uppermost leaves remain wrapped around the emerging tassel instead of unfurling normally – was observed in several states in 2025.

The widespread occurrence of tassel wrap in 2025 was primarily driven by environmental conditions, with abundant moisture and heat unit accumulation in the growth stages leading up to pollination likely playing a key role.

Field observations by Corteva scientists suggest that genetic factors also contributed, with corn hybrids characterized by erect leaf architecture in the upper canopy and very aggressive earlier silking more likely to experience tassel wrap.

In most cases, tassel wrap does not ultimately affect yield; however, reduced kernel set and yield loss can occur if it persists long enough to negatively affect pollination.

In fields affected by tassel wrap, it is advisable to wait until mid-grain fill stages to evaluate effects on kernel set and its potential yield impact.

Learn more in this Crop Bulletin