Some hybrids naturally partition more carbohydrates to the stalk.
Though useful in a poor stalk quality year, that trait may limit yield potential in a more normal environment. In the hybrid development process, researchers must be careful to select hybrids with highest harvestable yield potential across many years and environments. Too much emphasis on stalk quality alone could result in lower yield potential most years. Hybrid maturity determines the plant's developmental stage when environmental stresses occur, which impacts stalk quality. Hybrids prone to leaf diseases may lose significant leaf area, weakening the stalks.