The apparent 'regrowth' of these fields looked promising from windshield surveys, but little if any grain yield was obtained from these damaged fields. Tillers on Normal Plants Tillers may develop in undamaged fields, also. Most agronomists agree that such tiller development is a signal that growing conditions are very favorable, with few limitations on available nutrients, water, or light. Favorable growing conditions may exist simply due to favorable weather conditions or because the plant population is too low for the productivity level of the field. With favorable growing conditions, the corn plant has ample energy and nutrients to 'invest' in tiller development.
Some hybrids are also genetically prone to developing tillers, even at adapted plant populations.
As a rule, the end result of tiller development in an undamaged field is neutral. Usually, the main stalk will outcompete the tillers and the tillers eventually wither away. Tiller development in a field that was damaged or simply planted too thin MAY result in harvestable ears and thus contribute to grain yield. It is the policy of the Purdue Agronomy Department that all persons shall have equal opportunity and access to its programs and facilities without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability. Purdue University is an Affirmative Action employer.