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Then, why is my corn turning purple?
The purple color is from a pigment that forms when there is more sugar in the leaves than the plant can utilize. Low phosphorus inhibits sugar movement out of leaves, and cool, dry soils reduce root growth and sugar movement to the roots. Both of these increase sugars in the plant and can make the tissue turn purple.
Regarding this, why are my corn stalks turning red?
Corn plants in many fields are turning red and that is not a good sign. The red color is coming from a build-up of sugar in the leaves and stalks. The build-up of sugar is a result of too few kernels being developed on the ears. Heat stress during pollination was the primary culprit of red leaves in these fields.
Nitrogen (N) Plants are short; leaves tend to be pale green-yellow in color, especially on the older foliage. On tomato plants, the undersides of the leaves and stems can develop a purple coloration. Phosphorus (P) Plants are usually stunted and a dark green color.